Sedation dentistry is the ideal solution for patients who have severe anxiety and fear over going to the dentist or having dental work completed. These types of patients typically avoid the dentist for many years, only worsening their dental problems. Sedation is also used to complete complex dental procedures such as the placement of dental implants. Dr. Robert Cain is a periodontist serving patients from Maryville, TN who offers a few different sedation techniques.

During your pre-procedure consultation, it is important to share your anxiety or fears. Then, Dr. Cain can recommend a sedation option that best suits you and the kind of dental work you are having done. East Tennessee Periodontics, LLC offers nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation. These sedation methods will help you feel calm, relaxed, and confident about having your dental work completed.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, is often used by dentists to help lessen the fear and anxiety patients feel during dental treatments. It has been proven to be safe and very effective. Nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that is administered via a mask that will be worn during the entire procedure.

The calm and relaxed state will take effect immediately. Patients will have full control of their body and will be able to communicate with the dental staff. The effects of the laughing gas will diminish quickly once the mask is removed. Since the effects wear off quickly, most patients can drive themselves home after the procedure.

Oral Sedation (Conscious Sedation)

Oral sedation, also called conscious sedation, is administered in a pill form. It is a sedative that the patient will take before their scheduled appointment. Dr. Cain will prescribe the medication and give instructions on when to take it. This form of sedation will significantly relax the patient but they will remain awake, able to breathe independently and remain in control of bodily functions.

Once the procedure is completed, most patients do not remember anything from the appointment, despite being awake. This type of sedation may take several hours to completely wear off and patients will need to arrange for transportation after treatment.

IV Sedation

During IV sedation, medication is administered directly into the blood stream from an IV. The patient will feel the effects rather quickly, entering a sleep-like state. This will not be a deep sleep but the patient will feel total relaxed for a long period of time and able to communicate still.

Once the IV is removed after treatment, the patient will need some time to recover, as the effects take some time to completely wear off. They will not be able to drive for the rest of the day and will need transportation home from the appointment.

Ask Us About Sedation Dentistry

If you are interested in learning more about sedation dentistry, ask Dr. Cain about it during your pre-procedure consultation. He can determine if you quality for it and answer any questions you may have. East Tennessee Periodontics, LLC has a few different options to choose from to help you feel calm, relaxed and confident during your dental treatment.

Dr. Cain welcomes patients from Maryville, TN who are interested in sedation dentistry. To schedule an appointment, contact us at 865.276.7173.