Is the fear surrounding a visit to the dentist preventing you from getting the care you need? You’re not alone. Fortunately, our practice in Albuquerque, NM, offers sedation dentistry to help patients relax safely while they undergo dental work. Learn more about how Dr. Steve L. Ollason can make your dental visits more comfortable with effective sedation options.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of using medication to help patients relax during a dental appointment. While local anesthesia numbs the treatment area, sedation dentistry calms a patient for a more comfortable visit. Sedation can be used alongside local anesthesia for an all but painless dental procedure.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Some of the benefits of sedation dentistry at our Albuquerque practice include:
Total Relaxation
You can feel entirely at ease throughout your dental procedure. Alleviated anxiety can work to improve the treatment experience at large.
Reduced Chair Time
With the proper dosage, patients can remain stationary for long periods and undergo extensive procedures in less time or fewer visits.
Customizable
Your dental goals are unique; your sedation will be, too. We will administer the proper dosage based on the work being done and your particular needs.
Improved Oral Health
Since patients know there’s a solution to their apprehension of visiting the dentist, they can get the care they need to maintain their dental health.
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Prioritize Your Comfort With Premier Dentistry in Albuquerque, NM
Many of our patients have some form of dental phobia or anxiety — but these roadblocks shouldn’t dissuade them from receiving the dental work they need. Fortunately, our team is experienced in providing safe, effective sedation.
To learn more about sedatives our dentist can use, including pills and laughing gas, get in touch with our practice today!
Request an AppointmentPopular Procedures
Performed With Sedation Dentistry
You may be an excellent candidate for this type of dentistry if you have a dental phobia. There are other reasons patients opt for sedation, especially if you are receiving:
Minor Oral Surgery
There are several minor oral surgeries that can utilize sedation dentistry, including tooth extraction, root canal therapy, and dental implant placement.
Noninvasive Treatment
Some may feel uncomfortable about even the most routine procedures, such as fillings, scaling and root planing, and crown placement.
Cosmetic Procedures and Cleaning
Routine cleaning, smile makeovers, and other procedures that may promote oral health and address cosmetic concerns may employ sedation dentistry.
A Look at Our Sedation Options
The right sedation dentistry option for you will be determined by you and Dr. Ollason during your visit.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask placed over your nose. The combination of nitrogen and oxygen can deliver relaxing effects within minutes, letting you remain conscious — but peaceful — during your dental work.
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Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a pill in the hours leading up to your appointment. This method offers deeper relaxation than its nitrous oxide counterpart and takes longer to wear off, which is why we recommend arranging for someone to take you to and from your appointment.
Request an AppointmentWhy Turn to Our Albuquerque Practice for Sedation Dentistry?
At New Mexico Smile Center, we treat each patient like family. Here’s what sets our practice apart:
Total Relaxation
You can feel entirely at ease throughout your dental procedure. Alleviated anxiety can work to improve the treatment experience at large.
Reduced Chair Time
With the proper dosage, patients can remain stationary for long periods and undergo extensive procedures in less time or fewer visits.
Customizable
Your dental goals are unique; your sedation will be, too. We will administer the proper dosage based on the work being done and your particular needs.
Candidates for Sedation Dentistry
Have Trouble Sitting Still
Feeling anxious can result in involuntary movements during your procedure, which prolongs your stay in the dental chair and makes it difficult for your dentist to provide treatment.
Have a Sensitive Gag Reflex
A strong gag reflex can make your dentistry procedures take longer than intended, which can make you even more uncomfortable and worsen your anxiety. Sedation relaxes your gag reflex.
Undergo Multiple or Complex Procedures
From tooth extraction to implant-supported crowns, some treatments involve more than one step. This type of dentistry lets your dentist work faster and more efficiently.
Certain underlying conditions can increase the risks of this type of dentistry, which is why we meet with you to assess your overall health and help make the right decision for you.
The Sedation Process Dentistry Made Comfortable
If you receive sedation, you will need a ride to and from your appointment.
Consultation
Before undergoing any type of sedation, you will meet our dentist to review your medical history, dental care needs, and any fears you may face about the process.
This step is crucial in determining which option is the safest while meeting your anxiety-reducing goals.
Arranging Transportation
If he decides oral sedation is best for you, you will want to have a friend or family member drive you to and from your appointment.
Operating a vehicle immediately following oral conscious sedation can put you and others on the road at risk.
Follow Preparatory Instructions
Typically, oral sedation will be taken at home before your dental appointment.
You may receive instructions, which can include avoiding certain medications and restricting eating and drinking for a few hours before sedation, to ensure its efficacy.
Exploring the Cost of Sedation Dentistry
The cost of sedation dentistry depends on which type of sedation you receive, how much sedative is needed, and how long you’ll be sedated. Dr. Ollason will go over which option is best for you and what you can expect in terms of cost.
Unless deemed medically necessary, dental insurance does not cover the cost of sedation dentistry. However, since our practice is committed to making dental care accessible, we accept financing through CareCredit® to make out-of-pocket expenses more manageable.
Sedation Dentistry in Albuquerque
Sedation dentistry helps patients feel calm and comfortable during dental procedures. It is often recommended for patients with dental anxiety or those undergoing more complex treatments such as dental implants or full mouth reconstruction. At New Mexico Smile Center, sedation options allow you to receive the care you need while feeling relaxed throughout your visit.
Sedation Dentistry in Albuquerque FAQs
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures.
Who can benefit from sedation dentistry?
Patients with dental anxiety, sensitive teeth, or those undergoing longer procedures may benefit from sedation dentistry.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is considered safe when administered by trained dental professionals who monitor patients during treatment.
Will I be asleep during sedation dentistry?
Most forms of sedation allow patients to remain awake but deeply relaxed during treatment.
How long does sedation last?
The duration depends on the type of sedation used and the length of the dental procedure.
Can sedation help with dental anxiety?
Yes, sedation dentistry is commonly used to help patients feel calm and comfortable during dental visits.