If you have broken, missing, or painful teeth but find yourself avoiding the dentist because of fear and anxiety, sedation dentistry (or “sleep dentistry”) may be right for you. From the mildly relaxing effects of nitrous oxide to the deeply restful state that moderate conscious IV sedation provides, finding a sedation option that will allow you to receive the dental treatments you need without fear or pain is possible.

 

What Is Sedation Dentistry? 

At Bright Ridge Dental, we practice gentle dentistry with a variety of solutions that allow patients with dental anxiety and dental phobias to relax.
Bentonville dentists Drs. K.C. and Kaitlin Dietz are trained in the delivery of a variety of sedation methods and will work closely with you to choose the one that best suits your unique needs. Whether you want to “take the edge off” or prefer dozing through your appointment (with little to no memory of your procedure), we have an option that is perfect for you.

When choosing a sedation method, it is good to know the different levels of sedation that can be reached:

  • Minimal sedation: This is the mildest level of sedation; you feel deeply relaxed but are awake and aware.
  • Moderate sedation/conscious sedation: This is a deeper level of sedation that is best administered via IV sedation medication.  This level of sedation is very safe but may cause you to slur your words, have delayed reaction times, and sleep during dental treatment. You likely will not remember your treatment clearly.
  • Deep sedation & general anesthesia: This form of sedation is best reserved for a hospital or oral surgery center and is not performed at our office.

Types of Sedation 

Nitrous oxide: This sedation option is administered through the inhalation of nitrous oxide gas (a.k.a. laughing gas) and works well for those with mild anxiety. This is the most common form of sedation in dentistry. It’s easy to administer and wears off quickly, so patients are able to safely leave the office on their own, without a driver or escort.  Nitrous oxide analgesia has been reported to provide equivalent pain relief up to 7mg of morphine in some individuals!

Oral conscious sedation: This is a pill or liquid medication that is administered orally and provides a deeper level of relaxation than nitrous oxide. This form of sedation is appropriate for those with moderate dental anxiety and works well for some children. Most patients find that they have little memory of the appointment and doze through it. Dr. K.C. and Dr. Kaitlin Dietz prefer IV sedation because it is more predictable, offering a better experience for the nervous patient.  Adults respond very differently to standard oral doses of Halcion, Versed, Ativan, and Valium.  Both oral and IV sedation attempt to reach minimal and/or moderate conscious sedation.  For this reason and many others, it is our opinion that oral sedation is less-safe than IV moderate conscious sedation.  Assistance returning home after treatment is required.

IV conscious sedation: Our office administers moderate conscious IV sedation, one of the safest and most effective sedation method available!  IV sedation allows those with moderate and extreme fear or a history of difficulty getting numb to reach a deep level of relaxation. The dentist administers the sedative/anesthetic combination directly into the bloodstream, resulting in a precise level of sedation quickly. Effects are noted within 45 seconds and the dose can be safely titrated for ultimate comfort and safety.  Patients enjoy a profound amnesia effect, resulting in little to no memory of the dental procedure.

Who Can Perform Sedation Dentistry? 

As part of our dedication to delivering gentle dentistry, Dr. K.C. Dietz has completed the training and accreditation required to perform moderate sedation dentistry.   He holds current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) designations.  He is also a member of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. The Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners carefully regulates the use of sedation techniques, so you can rest assured that you are in good hands.

FAQ:

Q: “Who can undergo sedation, and who is it appropriate for?”

A: Sedation dentistry is appropriate for people who can’t receive dental services because of their fear and anxiety. It is also appropriate for individuals who:

  • Are difficult to “get numb”
  • Have a low pain threshold
  • Struggle with sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex
  • Need extensive work that requires multiple treatments; sedation dentistry allows the treatments to be done in fewer visits
  • Require extensive surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth removal or implant placement

Q: “How much does sedation dentistry cost?”

A: The cost of sedation dentistry varies according to what method you are using, which treatment you will be getting, and how long that treatment lasts. To find out more about the cost of your specific sedation method, call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dietz. At Bright Ridge Dental, we also offer a variety of financing and payment methods that will help you receive the level of sedation you desire on your budget.

Q: “How safe is sedation?”

A: There is always a risk when being sedated; however, when administered by an experienced dentist like Dr. Dietz, it is extremely safe. Dr. Dietz uses the most current monitoring equipment available and is able to adjust your sedation to the optimal level. Patients who have obstructive sleep apnea or who are obese should consult their doctor before having sedation, as they are more likely to experience complications.

If you think oral sedation dentistry could help you achieve a pain-free, beautiful smile, call (479) 715-4277 to set up an appointment with Bentonville dentists Drs. K.C. and Kaitlin Dietz today to find out more about your options and our treatments.