Sedation Dentistry
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
/
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax during your dental procedure. Depending on your anxiety levels, the procedure you're undergoing, and other factors, options range from mild nitrous oxide sedation to calm the body and mind to IV sedation that helps you drift into a state of deep relaxation.
Remaining Calm: The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation at Dental Works
At Dental Works in Scottsdale, AZ, we believe your comfort is of the utmost importance. Our dentists, Drs. Terry and Mary Ann Work, and their team of dental professionals will do everything in their power to ensure your treatments are as comfortable as possible. We provide many forms of sedation, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and intravenous sedation.
The type of sedation that is best for you will depend on several factors, such as the invasiveness of your procedure and your level of comfort with dentistry. To learn more about our sedation options, and to have a conversation about what form of dental sedation might be right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation online or give us a call at:
(480) 391-0099
Scottsdale, AZ, Patients Thank Our Team For Calming Their Dental Anxiety
Tracy G.
2019
The professionals at Dental Works take the anxiety out of dentistry. Dr. Terry and Dr. MaryAnn take outstanding care of their patients, and they always have a way of making you comfortable or helping you to laugh even in the dental chair. I was so pleasantly surprised today to see the new equipment they just installed in their exam rooms. It is state of the art, and it is nice to have the chair massage your back while you are getting your teeth cleaned. I highly recommend Dental Works to anyone looking for an excellent dental experience.
View On Googlenathan woelke
2019
I've had some bad experiences in the past getting dental work done. It was recommended from a wife's co worker that I give Dental Works a try, and I'm glad I did. I've started the work needed in my mouth, and my experiences have been amazing. The staff is incredibly intrested in putting any anxiety that you have at ease, and they are really good at making sure you are comfortable throughout your process. I would highly recommend them to anyone who gets nervous about getting dental work done.
View on GoogleTypes of Sedation
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, often referred to as "laughing gas," is the most commonly used form of sedation in dentistry and is the form that is usually best suited for use on children. Our dentists can administer the gas through a nasal mask, allowing them access to your teeth and gums while the gas produces a euphoric sensation that helps you relax.
Nitrous oxide is very safe and has the advantage of wearing off quickly after the mask is removed. As a result, patients can usually drive home on their own after undergoing treatment with nitrous oxide.
Oral Conscious Sedation
This method is often used for patients who experience moderate to extreme dental anxiety. Oral sedation involves taking sedatives in pill form before coming in for your appointment. The drugs involved are usually benzodiazepines, but other medications can be used, as well. Our dentists can also prescribe a medication for you to take at home that can help you relax and feel less anxiety about dentistry. Patients remain conscious after taking the sedative, but they may feel groggy for several hours after dental treatment. Consequently, you should arrange for someone else to drive you to and from our Scottsdale office. In some cases, patients may experience nausea or vomiting for a short time after the procedure.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
Intravenous sedation is the most advanced form of sedation dentistry we provide. This method involves directly injecting sedative into the bloodstream. Intravenous sedation can produce deep, long-lasting calm and relaxation, allowing our dentists to conduct more time-consuming procedures. For patients made nervous by needles, a topical anesthetic can be applied before the needle is placed. Like oral sedation, intravenous sedation can leave patients feeling groggy after treatment, so they should arrange for someone else to drive them to and from their appointment. After intravenous sedation, patients may experience nausea, headaches, or prolonged drowsiness and should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours.
Don't Have Dental Phobia But Curious About Sedation?
Patients with dental phobia are not the only ones who can benefit from sedation dentistry.
Many patients who find it difficult to remain still in the dental chair find sedation helpful, including patients with sensitive teeth, restless legs, a tendency to fidget when sitting, arthritis, or special needs. Patients may also choose sedation dentistry for certain complex procedures, such as placing dental implants. Even if you don't usually need sedation at the dentist, our team may recommend it for more involved procedures. We aim to help you feel relaxed and enjoy your time at our office, which is why we offer multiple sedation options.
To talk about your dental concerns and see if sedation dentistry can help you, call our Scottsdale office for a free consultation:
(480) 391-0099
More Stunning Reviews From Our Scottsdale Patients
Cindy C.
2014
I recently had to have some work done on a tooth that was in serious danger of cracking due to an old filling. I have been going to Dental Works for a few years now, and due to the excellent professional care I receive I was able to wait for the procedure until it was absolutely necessary. The doctors and staff are wonderful, courteous and always concerned about your comfort and health. Getting dental work can be anxious and fearful, but at this practice they go out of their way to make sure you are getting the very best care. I would highly recommend them and can't imagine getting my dental work done by any other facility.
Kendra H.
2019
I really appreciate the level of care and professionalism I received on each and every visit. Dr. Terry & Dr. Mary Ann Work make an unbelievable team and their office staff and atmosphere is warm and welcoming. The fact that they always reserve time in their day for dental emergencies is priceless, because when you have a toothache it is an emergency! I highly recommend Dental Works for all your dental needs! They do it all under one roof another BONUS!
Sedation Dentistry and Special Needs
We have a special place in our heart for patients with special needs at Dental Works. Our doctors have extensive experience providing dental treatment to patients with special needs and we understand the difficulties they face in getting the care they deserve. We often employ sedation dentistry to help them relax during their procedures.
If you or someone under your care has special needs, give us a call to learn more about how we can provide access to necessary dental care through sedation.
Relax with the Help of Sedation
In this video, Dr. Mary Ann Work explains the different types of sedation offered at our Scottsdale practice.
Sedation options at Dental Works include nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Nitrous oxide helps you feel less anxious while remaining conscious and you can drive yourself home. Oral conscious sedation offers deeper levels of relaxation and finally, IV sedation requires an anesthesiologist and patients will essentially be asleep throughout treatment.
Why Patients Choose Us For Sedation Dentistry
Since we have free consultations, it costs nothing to meet our team in-office and see why Scottsdale turns to us. Two reasons why patients choose us for sedation dentistry include:
Privacy
We've made special design changes to the layout of our office to aid our sedation patients. We have a private sedation room where you can relax, without being around others, while you wait for the medicine to kick in.
Comfort
Our top priority is your comfort and the quality of service we provide. You're greeted by our friendly staff when you walk into our office. Before your procedure, we listen closely to your needs and ensure a comfortable visit.
The Cost of Sedation Dentistry
Dental insurance may or may not cover sedation. At Dental Works, we work with patients to make dental treatment as affordable as possible. We will help you access every available benefit of your insurance plan, and we offer financing plans through CareCredit® and Sunbit.
Sedation Dentistry Timeline
The process of sedation dentistry will vary based on your procedure and the type of sedation that is right for you, but in general you can expect:
Don't Let Fear Keep You from the Dentist
Experts recommend visiting the dentist at least once every six months to maintain strong oral health. If you have avoided the dentist because you are made nervous by dentistry, the dental sedation options available at Dental Works in Scottsdale, AZ, can help you stay still and calm during your appointment.
We provide a variety of general, restorative, and cosmetic treatments, including routine cleanings, dental implants, teeth whitening, full mouth reconstructions, and more. Sedation medications or inhalation sedation can be made available during any treatment. We invite you to schedule an appointment with us today by booking online or calling
(480) 391-0099
"I look forward to my dental cleanings." Scottsdale Patients Look Forward to Seeing Us
John K.
2018
Dr. Mary Ann and Dr. Terry Work have been keeping my teeth healthy and clean for the past 8 years. I look forward to my dental cleanings because I know with their professionalism and friendly staff that I am in good hands. They take the time to keep me informed on my dental health and only provide the services that I need. Also, I chipped a tooth last month and Dr. Work got me in immediately and repaired my tooth. Thank you Dental Works!
Becky K.
2018
I have been a patient at Dental Works for almost 4 1/2 years. I have had 4 implants, one which I recently had work on and I am having a new implant that will be having a crown placed on it in 3 weeks, My smile says it all. The staff is friendly and courteous and just plain awesome and both Dentists are in it to make your smile one of a kind. They also explain everything and will work with you as far as setting up a payment plan, for what your insurance doesn't cover. The office is clean and organized. I was referred to their dental office by my aunt, who has been a patient with them for over 11 years and my Uncle has been a patient there for about 5 years. I gave them a 5, for all the reasons listed and because I don't think you would be disappointed if you made an appointment with them after reading my review.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry can be a very foreign topic for patients who have yet to be exposed to sedation practices at other dental offices. During a consultation, our team can answer any questions you may have. Some of the most common questions we're asked include:
Are there any risks?
Sedation dentistry is very safe, and complications are infrequent. As with the administration of any medication, however, there is a risk that you could be allergic to the sedative. Be sure to mention any allergies before undergoing sedation.
Who is at risk for complications under sedation?
Patients who are obese or who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea are more likely to experience complications while under dental sedation, as their throat muscles could relax and restrict airflow.
How can these risks be minimized?
There is little to worry about regarding dental sedation when the procedure is approved and overseen by an experienced dentist. Our dentists at Dental Works regularly administer sedation to our patients, and they will be sure to thoroughly cover all potential risks with you before beginning any treatment.
Why is sedation dentistry important?
Sedation dentistry is important because it provides a way for people afraid of the dentist to receive essential dental care. Furthermore, it allows our dentists to perform procedures that could otherwise cause pain or discomfort.
Does sedation dentistry really work?
Yes, sedation can help patients relax during treatment and get the care they need. Dental phobia and anxiety are real conditions that affect millions of Americans. Without consistent dental checkups, patients can develop serious health issues like decayed teeth, tooth infections, or gum disease. Sedation helps patients anxious about the dentist receive comfortable treatment.
Will I feel any pain with dental sedation?
While sedation calms the mind and body, it doesn't numb pain and discomfort. That's why sedation is accompanied by local anesthesia that numbs the area to make the procedure virtually painless.
What drug do dentists use for oral sedation?
Benzodiazepines are usually prescribed for oral conscious sedation. We have a permit to prescribe Halcion to our patients who need a more potent form of sedation than nitrous oxide.
Patients Thank Our Caring Scottsdale Dental Team
Jerry & Larissa Getz
2023
I can't say enough about the whole staff! I've never had a Dr. of any kind call me personally the next morning to ask how I was feeling. Please use them!!!!!!
View on GoogleFred Bockelman
2023
No pain with extraction..feeling great and no bleeding after about 6 hours..slept great overnight JFB
View on Google
