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Sedation Dentistry in Spring Hill, TN

Enjoy Worry-free Dentistry Today

Conquer Dental Anxiety With Dr. Robinette

Have you ever felt anxious or stressed at the mere thought of visiting the dentist? If the answer is yes, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is a common concern that prevents many from seeking necessary dental care. At Dentistry by Design of Spring Hill, we understand visiting the dentist can evoke feelings of fear and anxiety. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry, a specialized approach to dental care, for a relaxed and comfortable experience.
Our Spring Hill dentist, Dr. Richard Robinette, offers several types of sedation to help patients feel calm no matter their treatment. From routine dental checkups and cleanings to root canals and dental implants, we’re here to make your experience comfortable and relaxed.

Are You Nervous About Going to the Dentist? Don’t Be - We Have Relaxation Options

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with dental phobia, sensitive gag reflexes, or those requiring extensive dental work. By offering varying levels of sedation, Dr. Robinette can tailor the experience to each patient’s needs, ensuring a smooth visit.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Anxiety Reduction: One of the primary benefits of sedation dentistry is the alleviation of anxiety. It helps patients overcome their dental fears, making it easier to undergo necessary treatments.
Pain Management: Sedation not only relaxes you mentally but also minimizes physical discomfort. You’ll experience less pain during and after the procedure.
Time Efficiency: Since you’ll be more relaxed, dentists can often complete multiple procedures in one visit, reducing the number of appointments needed.
Gag Reflex Control: Individuals with a sensitive gag reflex can find dental procedures extremely uncomfortable. Sedation helps control this reflex, making the experience more pleasant.
Memory Suppression: Some forms of sedation dentistry may cause temporary amnesia, allowing patients to have dental work done without vivid recollections of the experience.

Sedation Dentistry Services

A woman receives sedation through a mask while undergoing a dental procedure.

Laughing Gas

Laughing gas is inhaled through a nasal mask. You will feel drowsy, but you’ll remain awake throughout your procedure. The gas will begin to work within minutes, allowing you to stay relaxed from beginning to end. When we’re finished with your treatment, we’ll turn off the gas. The effects wear off within a few minutes, so you can drive home safely.

IV Sedation

We also offer IV sedation, where medication is administered through a line directly into a vein. This option is useful for procedures that may take more time, such as wisdom teeth extractions or dental implant placement. However, we can also use this option for extreme dental anxiety. IV sedation is a popular option for its many benefits, which include quick recovery time, reduction of gag reflex, and the ability to remain conscious throughout the procedure.

General Sedation

General anesthesia combines gases and IV medications to ensure patients remain unconscious for the entirety of the procedure. You’ll be under the care of an experienced anesthesiologist while you are sedated. For very extreme dental anxiety and extensive dental procedures, like entirely impacted wisdom teeth extraction, general anesthesia is an option.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Absolutely! Sedation dentistry is safe when administered by a qualified, experienced dentist like Dr. Robinette. Before undergoing any sedation procedure, we’ll review your medical history and ensure you’re a suitable candidate for sedation. Our team will also monitor your vital signs throughout your procedure for your safety.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is sedation dentistry suitable for children?

Yes, sedation dentistry can work for children who experience dental anxiety or require extensive dental work. However, it’s important to consult your child’s doctor before considering sedation dentistry.

How long does the sedative effect last?

The duration of sedation varies depending on the type of sedation used. Laughing gas wears off quickly, while oral sedatives may leave you drowsy for a few hours after the procedure. Your dentist will provide a timeline for recovery before your sedation procedure.

Are there any side effects of sedation?

Side effects are minimal and temporary. They may include drowsiness, dizziness, and in some cases, nausea. Your dentist will provide post-procedure care instructions to ensure your comfort.

Is it possible to drive home after the procedure?

If you undergo oral or IV sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home, as the effects take time to wear off. Those who choose nitrous oxide sedation can drive home when the effects wear off, which may only take a few minutes.

Explore Sedation at Dentistry by Design of Spring Hill

Sedation dentistry offers a path to stress-free dental experiences for people who have long avoided necessary procedures due to anxiety. With its various levels of sedation, this innovative approach ensures your comfort and relaxation throughout the treatment process. Don’t let dental fear hold you back any longer — consider sedation dentistry for a more pleasant, anxiety-free dental journey.