Sedation Dentistry – Dental Implants and Periodontology of Massapequa

Dental Implants and Periodontology of Massapequa provides sedation dentistry on the South Shore of Long Island and surrounding areas of New York. To learn more, call

516-799-2222

or contact us today to schedule an appointment.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry refers to medically induced relaxation techniques used during dental procedures. There are a few different types of sedatives that offer varying levels of sedation from mild to deep sedation. Sedation dentistry may be used for particularly complex procedures or to help anxious patients feel more relaxed.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Feel more relaxed. If you tend to feel nervous or anxious about dental procedures, sedation can help you feel more relaxed and avoid unnecessary stress.
Procedures seem shorter. While under sedation you are less aware of your surroundings and time seems to pass more quickly. Before you know it, your procedure is over.
Doctors can work more efficiently. When you are sedated your doctor can work more quickly and get more done in a shorter period of time.
Less local anesthesia may be needed. Sedation can reduce the amount of local anesthesia that is required for a procedure, which means the numbness will wear off more quickly.
Get the dental care you need. For some people dental anxiety is so severe that they avoid getting the dental care they need. The longer it is avoided, the worse the condition will get. Sedation can make it possible for you to receive much needed dental treatment.

Why Choose Dental Implants and Periodontology of Massapequa?

We offer sedation dentistry because we believe that you should never have to be afraid to receive dental care. With the help of sedation, as well as compassion and understanding, we can change the way you feel about going to the dentist. We work closely with a highly qualified anesthesiologist who comes to our office to administer IV sedation. During sedation you are closely monitored to ensure that you are safe and well. You can essentially “sleep” right through your procedure, then go home and rest. Please let us know if you are interested in sedation dentistry and we will be happy to discuss the option with you.

Sedation Options We Offer

Conscious oral sedation. An oral sedative can be prescribed in a pill form that you can take before you arrive for your appointment. It will help you feel more relaxed, but you will still be conscious and able to respond to questions and requests.
IV sedation. Intravenous sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation where you may be completely unaware of your surroundings, almost as if you are put to sleep, but you are still conscious. You can respond to questions and requests, but you most likely won’t remember anything about the procedure afterwards.

Are You a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Does the thought of an upcoming dental procedure fill you with dread? If so, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is a real condition affecting about a third of Americans. You may be a good candidate for sedation if you feel nervous or anxious when it comes to receiving dental care. Sedation can make it possible for you to get the treatment you need without fear.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Is IV sedation the same as general anesthesia?

IV sedation is not as deep as general anesthesia. You are still technically conscious, but you will most likely feel like you are asleep. Under general anesthesia you are completely unconscious, which is why it is only administered in a hospital setting.

What sedation option doesn’t use needles?

If you have a fear of needles, an oral sedative may be the best option for you. You only need to swallow a pill to feel more relaxed, however you will be more conscious than if you had IV sedation.

Can you drive home after having sedation?

If you take an oral sedative or have IV sedation you will not be able to drive home afterwards. You will need to have someone you trust drive you to and from your appointment. It is also a good idea to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Sedation is generally safe for most patients. We always gather a complete medical history and list of current medications before administering any type of sedation. If you have any serious health concerns, approval from your primary care physician may be required.

Is there a risk of not waking up from sedation?

Conscious oral sedation and IV sedation allow you to remain conscious, just less aware. You never have to worry about not regaining consciousness, because you are never unconscious to begin with.

How long does it take for oral sedation to wear off?

It depends on how quickly your body metabolizes the medication. You can expect it to wear off a few hours after your procedure.

Is sedation covered by insurance?

Depending on the need for it, dental insurance may cover sedation. When the procedure is invasive enough to require it, it may be covered. But if it is only needed for your personal preference, it may not be covered.

Contact Us

Call

516-799-2222

or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

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Sedation Dentistry in Long Island, New York