Dental anxiety is common. In fact, research shows that approximately 9% to 20% of patients suffer from dental anxiety. In some cases, it can be so severe that they just about stop going altogether.

Capitol Square Dental offers minimal sedation. If you struggle with going to the dentist because you are concerned it will hurt or you can't sit still, ask about sedation options. If the sedation wears off early, we can administer more.

In addition to the sedation, we administer local anesthesia too. This will keep you from feeling pain.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is an area of dentistry that allows patients with phobias, low pain thresholds, inability to sit still, and so much more to get the dental treatments that they need. Sedation allows patients to relax instead of being concerned about what is happening in their mouths.

What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

The primary benefit of sedation dentistry is that it eases phobias and anxieties, which allows patients to relax during dental work. Since they are relaxed, the dentist can usually work much faster, which means fewer appointments. Some patients have such severe fears/phobias about visiting the dentist that they avoid it- sedation can help them get the care they need.

Who is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Patients who have anxiety or dental phobia that prevents them from visiting the dentist are ideal candidates for sedation dentistry. Sedation is also ideal for patients who:

  • Have a low pain threshold
  • Have a short gag reflex
  • Need a lot of dental work done
  • Can't sit still
  • Have sensitive teeth

Sedation may be offered to parents of pediatric patients if the child is afraid of the dentist or refuses to cooperate. Nitrous oxide is safe for children and can be given by just about any dentist. In some cases, oral sedation may be safe if kept within the recommended dose for the child's age/weight.

We provide minimal sedation

Capitol Square Dental offers minimal sedation. We want to help you feel relaxed but still allow you to be coherent during the procedure. This means that you will be able to respond to verbal and/or tactical stimuli but you will feel completely relaxed during the procedure.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

While anesthesia always comes with some risks, sedation dentistry is typically safe when administered by an experienced dentist. However, if you are obese or you have underlying health conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, you are at an increased risk of complications from sedation, so you need to involve your primary medical care provider in your treatment.

How Is Sedation Dentistry Performed?

When it comes to sedation dentistry, the way it is performed depends on the method:

  • Nitrous oxide:

    Inhaled

  • Oral:

    liquid or tablet/capsule medication

  • IV:

    directly into the veins

How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?

The cost of sedation depends on what method is used:

  • Nitrous oxide:

    $50 to $60

  • Oral Sedation:

    $175

  • IV Sedation:

    $290 to $340

  • Deep Sedation:

    $180

Most dental insurance providers consider sedation in dental procedures "not medically necessary", therefore they do not cover it.

Are There Any Side Effects to Sedation Dentistry?

After sedation, you may feel drowsy for the rest of the day. In addition, you may have some swelling and/or bruising in the case of IV sedation, which should resolve within a few days. Many patients experience amnesia and don't remember much about the procedure.

The risk of major side effects such as nausea or vomiting, while present, is low. If you have a history of allergies to medications, make sure that your dentist is aware. If you are interested in sedation dentistry, we will be happy to explain the risks and benefits, as well as answer your questions or address your concerns about your sedation options.

Sedation Dentistry In Columbus Ohio

Capitol Square Dental in Columbus offers minimal sedation, which is designed to help patients relax. This allows patients who are nervous to relax and makes the dental visit a more pleasant experience. If you have anxiety over visiting the dentist, schedule your consultation with the team at Capitol Square Dental today. We are located on South High Street and are open on Tuesday and Thursday.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

The team at Capitol Square Dental in Columbus offers minimal sedation. If you have any questions/concerns, we'll be happy to discuss them. Below are some of the most common questions we hear.

  • Is oral sedation dentistry safe?

    Yes, oral sedation is very safe and can help calm your anxiety and fear of visiting the dentist. However, if you have certain medical conditions or allergies, make sure to put those on your records, as these could interact with the medication.

  • Do you feel pain with dental sedation?

    No, you will not feel pain with dental sedation. You will be fully relaxed and you may have some amnesia, not even remembering much of the procedure.

  • What does it feel like to be sedated at the dentist?

    When the sedation takes effect, you will feel calm and relaxed. You may even feel like you are floating.

  • Is sedation dentistry painless?

    Yes, sedation dentistry is painless. If you have IV sedation, you may feel a little prick when the IV is inserted.

  • Can people hear when sedated?

    Capitol Square Dental offers minimal sedation, which means you will be conscious but relaxed. You will be able to hear.

  • How long does sedation last?

    The amount of time sedation lasts depends on how quickly your body metabolizes it. For some, the effects last longer than for others. However, it will definitely last through your procedure.

  • Will I wake up during sedation?

    No, as long as the proper dosage is administered, you should not wake up during the procedure. We are trained in sedation and understand the proper dosage to ensure that you remain sedated while we work.

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