Relieving Dental Fear for Patients 

    Is dental phobia keeping you from getting the dental care you desperately need? Are you facing extensive treatment, whether for fillings, cosmetic dentistry, or implant dentistry, which you cannot fathom handling without being "out"? If this scenario describes you, you may need more than our usual comfort techniques (local anesthetic for numbing area to be treated, waiting for a tooth/gum area to be completely numb prior to treatment, nitrous oxide, etc.) to get through your appointment. For you - and others like you - we offer oral  sedation dentistry to patients who visit our office.

What is oral sedation dentistry and how does it work?

With conscious sedation dentistry, you will be given a small pill to take an hour prior to your dental appointment. By the time you arrive (with the aid of a companion), you will be very drowsy. No IV needles are needed. To aid in your relaxation, you will be provided with headphones, a neck pillow, and a blanket.  Your relaxed state will mimic the feeling of sleep (and you may even doze off), but you will have the ability to answer any questions or react to any instructions given by Dr. Kariotoglou. While you are under sedation, Dr. Kariotoglou will perform all necessary dental work. When your procedures are complete,  you may have no memory of the procedures depending on the medication. 

Why choose conscious sedation dentistry?

Most patients who suffer from dental phobia would prefer to have no recollection of their treatment. If this statement describes you, then you are in luck. There is a  medication used in the sedation dentistry procedures creates an amnesia-like state in which you will most likely have little, if any, recollection of your procedure. If you have neglected your teeth due to dental anxiety and you are now seeking treatment, you should not feel embarrassed about the current state of your dental health. Dr. Kariotoglou and his team are only interested in getting you through your dental phobia to optimal dental health. You will not be judged for your past avoidance of the dentist. We would rather praise you for conquering your fear and seeking treatment!

Will I feel any pain during my sedation procedure?

No, you will feel nothing!

Will I be unconscious?

No, you will be in a relaxed state, and you will be responsive.

Will someone need to accompany me?

Yes, due to the sedative effects of the medication, you will need someone to drive you to our office and home again.

 

Request an appointment today!

Who is a candidate for sedation dentistry?

Excellent candidates for oral conscious sedation dentistry at our office are people who have:

• High fear 

• Difficulty getting numb 

• Very sensitive teeth

• Limited time to complete dental care

• Hate the noises, smells and tastes associated with dental care

• Traumatic dental experiences

• A bad gag reflex 

• Complex dental problems

• A fear of needles and shots

• Embarrassment about their teeth

When can I go home?

Almost as soon as your treatment is completed, your companion can return you to your home to finish your comfortable, relaxing day.

How can I learn more about oral conscious sedation dentistry?

Patients who are interested in oral conscious sedation dentistry and would like to learn more should contact our office where one of our team members would be happy to answer any questions you may have.