Sedation Dentistry
Comfortable Care for Every Patient
People fear the dentist. In fact, sometimes they are so afraid to visit the dentist that they just skip it all together. Unfortunately, avoiding dental treatment can lead to serious health complications and a compromised quality of life.
At Cleveland Smile Center, we understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful for many patients. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry including no cost options. Using sedation is a safe, effective way to help you relax and feel at ease during your dental treatment.
Whether you have dental anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, difficulty sitting for long periods, or are undergoing a complex procedure, sedation dentistry can make your visit significantly more comfortable.
Our team is trained to provide a range of sedation options tailored to your needs and health history.
Contact us at one of our dental offices.
Types of Sedation Dentistry Offered
No Cost Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral sedation [1] uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. How it’s used depends on the severity of the fear. Our doctors will write you a prescription that you take 90 minutes prior to your dental appointment, so you won’t be billed for any sedation services.
Levels of sedation can range from:
- Minimal sedation – you are awake but relaxed.
- Moderate sedation – you may slur your words when speaking and not remember much of the procedure.
- Deep sedation – you are on the edge of consciousness and will not remember any of the procedure.
Our goal is to create a stress-free dental experience so you can get the care you need without fear or discomfort. Many patients report that procedures seem shorter, easier, and more pleasant with sedation.
If you’ve been avoiding the dentist due to anxiety or discomfort, sedation dentistry at Cleveland Smile Center can help you regain confidence in your oral health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn which option is right for you.
You can also find out more details in our blog called Sedation Dentistry: A Calmer Way to Care for Your Smile.
Nitrous Oxide Gas
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable time spent in the dental chair. It is a completely safe and effective method that will relieve your anxiety about coming to the dentist.
Once your dental procedure is complete, the nitrous oxide comes out of your system in minutes. You can drive home, go back to work, and leave our office without feeling stressed.
If you’re interested in nitrous oxide sedation, ask us about it.
Questions Our Patients Ask
Q: Can sedation dentistry help with dental anxiety?
A: Yes. Sedation dentistry is designed to help patients who feel anxious, nervous, or afraid during dental visits. If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you need, sedation can help you feel calmer and more comfortable during treatment.
At Cleveland Smile Center, we offer sedation options for patients who want a more relaxed dental experience. Many patients feel deeply calm during their appointment, and some remember very little about the visit afterward, depending on the type of sedation used.
Q: Is sedation dentistry safe?
A: Yes, dental sedation is widely used and has a strong safety record when provided by a trained dental team. Before recommending sedation, Cleveland Smile Center reviews your medical history, current medications, health conditions, and the type of dental treatment you need.
During your appointment, our team monitors you closely to help keep you safe and comfortable. We will also explain the sedation option being recommended, how it works, and what to expect before, during, and after your visit.
Q: What does dental sedation feel like?
A: Dental sedation usually feels calming and relaxing. Depending on the sedation option used, you may feel drowsy, peaceful, less aware of the sounds and sensations around you, or have little memory of the appointment afterward.
Most forms of sedation do not make you fully unconscious. With oral sedation dentistry, for example, many patients remain awake but feel very relaxed. With deeper sedation options, you may drift in and out of sleep. Your dentist will explain which level of sedation is right for your treatment and anxiety level.
Q: Is sedation dentistry the same as sleep dentistry?
A: The terms sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry are often used together, but they do not always mean the same thing. Sedation dentistry may involve different levels of relaxation, from mild calming medication to deeper sedation.
Some patients feel so relaxed that they sleep through much of the appointment, while others remain awake but calm. Cleveland Smile Center will help you understand the difference between sedation options and choose the safest, most appropriate approach for your needs.
Q: How long does dental sedation last?
A: How long sedation lasts depends on the type of sedation used, your health, and how your body responds. Some forms of dental sedation wear off relatively quickly, while others may leave you feeling tired or groggy for several hours.
For many sedation dentistry appointments, you will need a trusted adult to drive you home. Cleveland Smile Center will give you clear instructions before your visit so you know whether you can return to normal activities right away or need to rest afterward.
Q: Can I drive myself home after sedation dentistry?
A: In many cases, no. If you receive oral sedation, IV sedation, or another form of moderate sedation, you should not drive yourself home. You will usually need a responsible adult to bring you to the appointment, drive you home, and stay with you for a short period afterward.
If only minimal sedation is used, your instructions may be different. Our team will tell you exactly what is required before your appointment.
Q: Can I get sedation for a routine cleaning or simple dental procedure?
A: Yes. Sedation is not only for oral surgery or major dental procedures. If anxiety makes routine dental care difficult, Cleveland Smile Center can discuss whether sedation is appropriate for cleanings, fillings, dental crowns, gum care, or other treatments.
Our goal is to help patients who search for a sedation dentist near me or a dentist for anxiety receive the care they need without fear, stress, or avoidance.
Have a question? Reach out to us!
[1] Please Note: It’s important to have someone drive you to and from our office, as this type of sedation will leave you feeling drowsy for several hours.