Columbus Sedation Dentist

It is sadly ironic that one of the best people you can talk to if you are afraid to go to the dentist is... a dentist. We understand your fear, and are trained to help you get the dental care you need without the fear, stress or anxiety that is so debilitating.

Just talk to us. We'll find a way to help you relax and get the treatment you need without the stress. And if it has been a long time since you've been brave enough to even walk through a dental office door, please start your journey toward dental health with us. We're not here to judge you. We' re just happy to be a part of helping you deal with the anxiety so you can restore your dental health.

What can a sedation dentist do for you?

Depending on your level of anxiety and the scope of the treatment you need, we have several different options available to you. We will discuss those options thoroughly with you prior to treatment, make sure that you understand those options, and are comfortable with what we decide to do.

Perhaps the biggest surprise to most people is an option called "conscious sedation".

What is conscious sedation?

Conscious sedation means that you are not completely unconscious during your dental treatment. If you are an extremely fearful dental patient, this may not sound that appealing, but people under this type of sedation rarely remember anything at all about their treatment.

This option is also safer than being under a general anesthetic. Unlike a general anesthetic, conscious sedation leaves your protective natural reflexes (such as coughing) functional. Though this kind of sedative is very safe, we do have a pulse oximeter to monitor your vital functions which we use during procedures, to provide that extra measure of reassurance and safety.

We prescribe an oral sedative, to be taken before your appointment. You will need to find someone to transport you to and from your appointment, as this type of sedation makes it impossible for you to drive. When the full effects of the sedative are realized, you will be in a deeply relaxed state, very sleepy and indifferent to discomfort.

Some patients with very extreme levels of anxiety may be able to fight off the effects of this sedative. If you think that might be you, we still have options that could work. Talk to us today about what we can do to get you the treatment you need.