Sedation Dentistry

A significant number of Americans do not visit the dentist for regular checkups because they are too fearful or suffer from dental anxiety.  Sedation dentistry offers an excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety-free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.

Sedation dentistry is often mistakenly thought to induce sleep.  In fact, most sedatives allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure.  Sleepiness is a side effect of some medications, but nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation only work to calm anxiety throughout the dental visit.

Sedation dentistry is popular because most sedatives can be taken by mouth, meaning no injections, no anxiety and no pain.  Some sedatives work so effectively that even the smells and details of the procedure cannot be recalled afterwards.  Safety and compliance are two important aspects of treatments, so sedation dentistry offers both the individual and the dentist the best alternative.

Whatever the form of sedative, it is essential to be accompanied by a caregiver.  Sometimes, sedatives are provided the night before the dental visit, which means that driving to or from the appointment is not advisable.

Here are some advantages associated with sedation dentistry:

  • Anxiety is alleviated.
  • Few side effects.
  • More can be accomplished during each visit.
  • No needles.
  • No pain.
  • Perfectly safe.
  • Procedures seem to take less time.

What kinds of sedatives are available?

The most popular types of dental sedatives are nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.  Different levels of sedation (mild, moderate and deep) can be utilized depending on individual needs.  Before administering any sedative, the dentist must analyze the full medical history of the patient, taking note of any current medications.

Here is an overview of some of the most common types of dental sedatives:

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is used as a mild sedative.  It is delivered through a nose hood, and is administered throughout the entire procedure.  Nitrous oxide elevates the general mood and can evoke a general sense of well-being.  Most importantly, it relieves anxiety and reduces pain during the procedure.  In addition, some tingling and numbness may be felt. There are few side effects associated with nitrous oxide, and it has been safely used in dentistry for many years.

IV Sedation

Intravenous sedation is a moderate type of sedation.  Patients who have previously experienced IV sedation often report feeling like they slept through the entire procedure.  Generally, IV sedation is used for shorter treatments.  It is administered via direct injection into the bloodstream, which means the effects are immediate.  Sometimes patients feel groggy and sleepy when the IV sedatives are withdrawn.  This is why it is important to bring a designated driver for the drive home.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is an excellent choice for people who fear needles.  Oral medication is provided prior to treatment in order to induce a moderate state of sedation.  Though oral sedatives do not cause sleep, they usually dull the senses.  This means that most patients cannot remember the pain, smells or noises associated with the procedure.  Usually, a dose of medication is taken prior to the appointment, and then topped up during the procedure as required.

What types of drugs are used in oral conscious sedation?

Most of the drugs used in sedation dentistry are classified as benzodiazepines.  Benzodiazepines reduce anxiety, muscle spasms, insomnia and seizures.  Each medication has a different half-life, meaning that the effects last for varying amounts of time.  The estimated length of the procedure determines which type of drug is going to be most effective.

Here are some of the most common drugs used in oral conscious sedation:

Valium® – This sedative has amnesic properties and a long half-life. It is usually used for time-consuming, complex procedures.

Halcion® – Usually used to treat insomnia, Halcion is an effective sedative with amnesic properties.  A short half-life makes this sedative useful for shorter procedures.

Ativan® – This sedative is best known for reducing anxiety.  It has amnesic properties and a medium half-life.  Ativan is typically used for treatments shorter than two hours.

Versed® – This sedative has the shortest half-life and is therefore less commonly used.  It alleviates anxiety in much the same way as nitrous oxide, and is used for visits that will take less than 30 minutes.

If you have questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please contact our office.

Back
I’ve seen Dr. Leilani LaBelle for all my periodontic needs over the years. Her skillful hands and gentle touch are perfectly complemented by her spirited enthusiasm! She and her competent staff have the ability to calm my nervousness and alleviate my fear.
M

Muriel King
Maple Grove Periodontics and Implant Dentistry has that very rare yet truly genuine personal touch. They care so much. It’s something quite beyond what you would expect and I’m so grateful for it.
J

John Pekar
I had many interactions with the office staff before I ever saw Dr. Labelle. Pure professionalism and a genuine need to want to help you is always how I felt I was treated. When I finally had my consult, I realized this is very likely a clinic entirely run by female staff. It was FANTASTIC! My first impression of Dr. Labelle was courteous, curious and professional. As expected.

In a nutshell. I chose her to do my skin grafts. Which turned out really well. Also, an occlusal on my lower front teeth. Insurance didn’t cover it, but it was THE BEST $300 some odd dollars I ever spent! I never knew I could experience such profound relief with such a minor adjustment! She is clearly the best at what she does.

If I need any further work, I’m checking with Dr. Labelle first!
B

Beth Barnes
Great experience with Dr. Labelle. I highly recommend and trust her. She did a great job explaining my condition, the results to expect and the procedure and after-care. Her staff was also very courteous and knowledgeable. As a bonus, they even asked me what music I wanted to listen to as they performed the procedure--over the top!
M

Monica Miller
Excellent team for your teeth, trusted, professional, extremely knowledgeable, great price. many years of experience.
Dr Labelle is fantastic.
P

Patrick Monthe
Dr. Wang and her staff are the best - I wish Google would allow me to give her a 10 star rating, because she deserves that and much more. My fear of a dentist is off the charts, but Dr. Wang made me feel very comfortable through my consultation and subsequent surgery. She answered my many questions and never made me feel "rushed". She obviously truly cares about her patients. Thank you Dr. Wang and staff - you are the best. I highly recommend this office!
L

Linda Forsgren
Dr. Wang is excellent not only at her job but also at helping you relax and trust the process. I’m naturally scared of dental work so it really helped to have a calm, steady professional working in my mouth! I’m extremely happy with the 2 procedures I had done that were both less than 2 hours in the chair. The healing process was 2 weeks and easily worth it! The best news is I’m in good hands from this point on with Dr. Wang should anything happen down the line.
Highly recommend!!!
M

Maureen
I recently had bone and gum graft procedure done by Dr. Wang, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience and the results. From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming and made me feel comfortable. Dr. Wang was incredibly professional, explaining each step and ensuring I was at ease throughout the procedure. The process was virtually painless, and their attention to detail was evident. I highly recommend Dr. Wang and their team to anyone looking for top-quality dental care. I even travel from Ohio twice just to see Dr.Wang because I know she is an excellent professional and I trust her and I know her for over 5 years. Thank you for a great experience!
S

Sergio Marchiani
I hardly ever write reviews, but in this case I feel compelled too and would feel bad if I didn’t. I cannot say enough good things about Maple Grove Periodontics. The entire staff is friendly, from your initial scheduling, to your first appointment, to after your appointments, everything about the experience is above and beyond compared to what you expect a medical provider. The sheer compassion and care Dr. Labelle shows you makes you feel instantly relaxed. I know a lot of people fear dental work because they don’t want to feel judged. Dr. Labelle never judged me for what was wrong or made me feel any less. She was sincere, compassionate and stuck to the facts without any emotion. She showed me what was wrong and what she was going to do to make me better and that just counts for so much when you’re afraid of getting dental work done. She answered any questions in easy to understand terms and really does have a vested interest in your progress. I want to give a shoutout too to the front desk staff, especially Cameron, thanks so much for always having a smile and being warm and friendly!

If you find yourself needing Periodontal work done, no matter where you are at in the state or metro, Maple Grove Periodontics should be your FIRST and ONLY CALL. Thank you again Dr. Labelle and staff!!
C

Cole Nesgoda
I was referred to Maple Grove Periodontics for a gum graft procedure. Dr. Wang was excellent…very knowledgeable, skilled & thorough. Very nice assistants & office staff. The instructions following the procedure were clear & manageable. Everything went well…I would highly recommend this dental practice.
V

Vicki Kolling
Ready for your first appointment?