SEDATION DENTISTRY

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures.

The following types of sedation are used in our office:

  • Inhaled minimal sedation.

    You breathe nitrous oxide -- otherwise known as "laughing gas" -- combined with oxygen through a mask that's placed over your nose. The gas helps you relax. Your dentist can control the amount of sedation you receive, and the gas tends to wear off quickly. This is the only form of sedation where you may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.

  • Oral sedation

    Depending on the total dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill. Typically, the pill is Halcion, which is a member of the same drug family as Valium, and it's usually taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you drowsy, although you'll still be awake. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. Some people become groggy enough from moderate oral sedation to actually fall asleep during the procedure. They usually can, though, be awakened with a gentle shake.

  • IV moderate sedation

    You receive the sedative drug through a vein, so it goes to work more quickly. This method allows the dentist to continually adjust the level of sedation.

Regardless of which type of sedation you receive, you’ll also typically need a local anesthetic — numbing medication at the site where the dentist is working in the mouth — to relieve pain if the procedure causes any discomfort.

IS Sedation recommended for you?

Sedation is most appropriate for people with a real fear or anxiety that is preventing them from going to the dentist.

Sedation dentistry may also be appropriate for people who:

  • have a low pain threshold
  • have very sensitive teeth
  • have a bad gag reflex
  • need a large amount of dental work completed

How Safe Is Sedation Dentistry?

There is always a risk in getting anesthesia. It’s important to make sure that your dentist is trained and qualified to administer the type of sedation you will be receiving. To be a smart patient, you should make sure the following things are done:

  • Before the procedure, your dentist should go over your medical history. Your dentist should also determine whether you are an appropriate candidate for sedation and ask about any medications you're currently taking.

  • It's important to find out how much training the dentist has and how many procedures he or she has performed using sedation.

  • You should receive a form detailing the risks of the procedure. Go over it carefully with your dentist. Ask questions if you're unclear on any of the wording.

  • The dentist should monitor your vital signs during the procedure. The dentist should also have oxygen -- artificial ventilation -- and drugs that reverse the effects of sedation on hand in case you need them.

I was terrified walking in for a gum graft. Dr. Bergen’s and his staff quickly made me feel safe. The procedure was done on time, professionally and with care. Dr. Bergen actually called me the night of the procedure to make sure I was ok.

Barbara W.

I had my first visit to Dr Bergen recently and was very impressed. He and his staff have created a friendly and professional environment that instills confidence in his practice. I foresee a lasting relationship with his office.

Robert D.

Everyone is total professionals,they make you feel at home ,very curious,makes the whole process easy.Everything is explained and you are aware of process and even after you leave office Dr. Bergens makes himself availiable thru phone.

Eusebio M.
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