Sedation Dentistry Helps Guests Overcome Fears and Anxieties
Sedation dentistry is the answer to over 35 million Americans’ fears and anxieties over visiting a dentist. A person may be a likely candidate for sedation dentistry who has had a traumatic experience in a dental chair or just comes from a painful past. No matter what the reason, Dr. Rotem and his staff at The Center for Exceptional Cosmetic Dentistry and Adult Dentistry understand and are here to help.
Sedation dentistry can be a combination of several anxiety-reducing factors. Oral medications such as a Valium can be used to help a guest relax and feel more comfortable, especially during long procedures. Sedation dentistry may also involve intravenous or even general anesthesia for guests who can’t or won't have dental procedures any other way. Some guests that have a very sensitive gag reflex or have difficulty getting numb with dental injections can also benefit from intravenous sedation dentistry. Nitrous oxide is another form of sedation dentistry that provides pain relief and distraction. Dr. Rotem, a member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, will decide the best procedure of combination of procedures that’s best for you!
How sedation dentistry works
Sedation dentistry in NJ is practiced the same way it is anywhere else – a guest is given oral medication to take, such as Valium, an hour prior to the scheduled procedure. A companion will accompany the guest to the office. Normally, a guest will be very drowsy by the time they arrive. Once there, the guest is escorted into the comfort room, covered with a thick, warm blanket and placed on a monitor to watch vital signs. After the guest is comfortable, Dr. Rotem and his experienced clinical team will perform the sedation dentistry and take care of the guest’s dental needs.
Why is sedation dentistry also called, “nap dentistry?”
The answer is simple: because a guest really can snooze through a sedation dentistry appointment! After the pill is ingested prior to treatment, there are no intravenous tubes or needles. The procedure is totally safe! Guests have little or no memory of procedures performed while undergoing sedation dentistry. There is no recollection of any sounds or smells either. A guest may snooze for up to five to six hours after ingesting the medication. Time will vary depending on the treatment required.
Complex dental treatments that often require six to eight appointments can be done in as little as one when utilizing sedation dentistry techniques – all while a guest is snoozing!
Commonly Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry...
Q- Will I be numb during sedation dentistry?
A- Yes. You will be numb before any work begins.
Q- Will I be unconscious during sedation dentistry?
A- No, you will be in a deeply relaxed state, and you will be
responsive.
Q- Will I be monitored during sedation dentistry?
A- Yes, one of our team is always with you and your vital signs
are monitored throughout all procedures performed during sedation dentistry.
You are never alone.
Q- How long will I be snoozing?
A- Depending on your needs, sedation dentistry requires being
relaxed from two to six hours.
Q- Will someone need to accompany me?
A- Yes, due to the sedative effects of the medication, you will
need someone to drive you to our office and home again.
Q- Who is a candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
A- People who have or had…high fears, traumatic dental experiences,
difficulty getting numb, a bad gag reflex, very sensitive teeth, complex
dental problems, or limited time to devote to complete dental care.
Also, people who hate needles and shots, hate the noises, smells and tastes associated with dental care or who are afraid or embarrassed about their teeth.
Dr. Rotem has received training in Sedation Dentistry.
He is a member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation.