Sedation Dentistry in Goshen

Alleviate Dental Anxiety with Sedation Dentistry in Goshen

Millions of Americans postpone vital dental care because of severe anxiety or an overactive gag reflex. If this sounds familiar, safe and effective sedation dentistry can make it possible for you to relax during your procedure so that you get the care that you need. Our skilled dentists have extensive experience working with patients with anxiety or other issues during dental visits and can help you find the sedation method to suit your needs. Schedule a consultation today with one of our dentists to find out more about our soothing sedation dentistry in Goshen.

How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?

Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, uses oral, intravenous, or inhaled medications to help patients who suffer from anxiety during dental procedures. Despite the name, the patient normally remains awake during the procedure, but in a state of deep relaxation. Sedation can make procedures ranging from cleanings to invasive treatments more tolerable for the patient.

Who Should Consider Sedation for Dental Treatment?

Most patients who choose sedation for dental treatment suffer from extreme dental fear and anxiety to the point that they neglect their oral health. You may also be a candidate for sedation if you have a hyperactive gag reflex that makes it difficult to tolerate dental procedures. Call today to find out how sedation dentistry in Goshen can help you experience a stress-free dental visit.

Are There Different Types of Sleep Dentistry?

Our dentists are trained in various methods of sleep dentistry and can help you find the most appropriate technique for your needs. The sedation options available at our office include:

Inhaled Minimal Sedation Dentistry: With inhalation sedation, the patient breathes in nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas) through a mask to promote relaxation. The dentist can control the level of sedation by adjusting the amount of gas being administered.

Oral Sedation Dentistry: With oral sedation dentistry, the patient takes a medication, such as triazolam, to help them feel relaxed and drowsy. Since most patients remain awake or in a light sleep, this technique is also known as oral conscious sedation.

IV Sedation Dentistry: With IV sedation dentistry, the dentist administers the sedative directly into a vein. The onset of the effects of IV sedation dentistry is much quicker than with oral sedation, and the dentist can easily adjust the level of sedation as needed throughout the procedure.

Deep Sedation: Deep sedation is the next step in the sedation continuum and is normally used during prolonged or complex invasive procedures. During deep sedation, the patient is in a deep sleep and not easily aroused. Unlike general anesthesia, patients under deep sedation do not necessarily require help with breathing.

How Can I Benefit from Sleep Dentistry?

The primary benefit of sedation is that it can help you receive treatment that you might otherwise put off because of fear. Patients choosing sedation experience less pain and awareness during procedures, which makes it more likely that they will seek routine dental care in the future. Sedation also reduces the gag reflex that can be experienced during certain procedures.

How Long Do the Effects of Dental Sedation Last?

The effects of dental sedation vary based on the method and type of medication used. Inhaled sedation, such as nitrous oxide, typically reverses quickly, so you should feel few effects when leaving the office. The effects or oral, IV, and deep sedation can last up to several hours. Patients should refrain from driving until the effects of the sedation have worn off, so you should bring a driver with you to your appointment to make sure that you get home safely.

Is Dental Sedation Safe?

In the hands of an experienced dentist, dental sedation is safe for most patients. Our dentist will go over your medical history with you to determine if you have any medical conditions that would prevent the use of sedation.

Does Sedation Dentistry Cost a Lot?

The cost of sleep dentistry varies based on the type of sedation used, the length of your procedure, and other factors. We will provide you with an estimate of your sedation dentistry cost following your initial consultation when you and your dentist have decided on a treatment plan. We will also go over your various payment options at that time.

Does My Dental Plan Offer Sedation Dentistry Insurance Coverage?

Insurance coverage for sedation services varies from plan to plan and patient to patient. Sedation services are most likely to be covered when deemed medically necessary based on the type of procedure or the patient’s history. We recommend that you contact your dental insurance provider before your appointment to verify your plan’s benefits and limitations.

How Can I Find Out More About Sedation for Dental Anxiety?

Don’t let fear keep you from taking care of your teeth and gums. Call our office today at (574) 538-2011 to schedule a consultation.