Sedation Dentistry
Everyone can benefit from sedation dentistry. Over 35 million Americans have some level of anxiety when it comes to going to the dentist. But for many, it is more than being afraid. Some of our patients have had a traumatic experience in a dental chair, while others come from a painful past. But regardless of your personal history, we are here to help. We understand that your fears may have kept you from a dentist, but there is no need to feel embarrassed. We are not here to judge you; we are here to help you and encourage you so that you can have the confidence that a beautiful smile can bring. Imagine not being afraid to go to the dentist and being able to complete all your dental care in one appointment! Sedation dentistry can change your life - ask us for more details!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Sedation Dentistry?
A: Sedation or "sleep" dentistry is an exciting new way to dream through dental visits. Patients take a pill one hour prior to their appointment and come to their dental office relaxed and at ease. No needles are required for sedation dentistry! Once at the office, we make sure patients are comfortable with blankets, pillows, and music. Although patients are able to move if needed, they have no recollection of the visit at all. Patients experience no pain during the procedure. Upon completion of the dental work, patients are gently awakened. The pill will continue to make the patient sleepy for the rest of the day, so a friend or family member picks them up after their visit. Patients generally comment of what a pleasant experience their sedation appointments are!
Q: Am I a candidate for sedation dentistry?
A: There are many different reasons to consider sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry is especially helpful for high-fear patients and patients with extensive dental work to be done. Patients with a severe gag reflex, with sensitive teeth, and patients with a resistance to anesthetics (trouble getting numb) also benefit from sedation dentistry. Now there is no reason to leave your teeth get worse.
Ultimately, the only way to really know if sedation dentistry is an option for you is to come in for an initial consultation. Call our friendly and helpful team for more information!
Q: How does the procedure work? What can I expect?
A: Sedation dentistry is a safe and easy procedure to allow you to get the most out of your dental visits without the fear and anxiety associated with dental visits. Sedation dentistry is generally done using a couple of pills. These pills are anti-anxiety pills and make patients very relaxed. A drug called Triazolam is often used, but there are others that could be better for your individual situation. During the time of your visit there will always be someone there with you to make sure you are comfortable; you will never be left alone. Once you are completely relaxed your doctor will do all the necessary work. A doctor can complete up to 5 hours worth of dental work during one sedation appointment. Patients often find it convenient to complete 4 or more dental visits in one simple visit. Plan on taking a day off of activities and relax the rest of the day. The next day you will wake up feeling refreshed, awake, and will have all of your dental work complete!
Q: I have dental insurance. Will they cover my sedation appointment?
A: While insurance often pays for work done while sedated, they generally do not pay for the cost of sedation. Check your insurance company to find out what would be covered for your plan. We can make financial arrangements to allow a guest to get the work they need completed. We are here to help you and answer your questions-give us a call!
Dr. Gary Imm, Cosmetic Dentist - Providing the services of Sedation and Headache Relief Dentistry to the areas of Westminster and Baltimore, Maryland (MD).
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