Sedation Dentistry

Does dental anxiety and fear prevent you from seeking necessary dental care? Rodion Pinkhasov, DMD, at Naples Dental and Wellness Center in Naples, Florida, wants you to be as relaxed and stress-free as possible when receiving cleanings and treatments. He offers sedation dentistry, including oral and IV options, to help ease your anxiety so you can get needed oral health care. Call today or use the online tool to schedule an appointment and learn how to benefit. 

What is sedation dentistry?

As many as 36% of people in the United States fear going to the dentist. If you’re among this group, you’d benefit from sedation dentistry.

When you undergo sedation dentistry, you’re given medications to help you relax and feel at ease during dental procedures. 

At Naples Dental and Wellness Center, Dr. Pinkhasov offers oral sedation. Before your appointment, you take a prescribed medication to feel more relaxed in the chair. 

The practice also offers IV (intravenous) sedation, which involves administering sedative medications directly into your bloodstream via an IV line, leading to a deeper level of sedation.

Who is a candidate for sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is particularly helpful when dental fear and anxiety keep you from getting the care you need. Dr. Pinkhasov may also recommend it if you have:

• A strong gag reflex
• Extreme teeth sensitivity
• Reduced responsiveness to local anesthesia
• Fear of needles or drills

Sedation dentistry may also be offered for people who have physical, cognitive, or behavioral limitations that make sitting still difficult or impossible.

How do I know which type of sedation is best for me?

IV sedation provides a higher level of sedation, which can be especially beneficial for patients with severe anxiety or those undergoing complex procedures. IV sedation allows Dr. Pinkhasov to make real-time adjustments to the sedative levels, ensuring your comfort throughout the treatment. 

Additionally, the effects of IV sedation wear off more quickly, allowing you to recover faster after the procedure.

Oral sedation is best for people with mild to moderate dental anxiety. It can also help if you have difficulty sitting still for extended periods. 

Before you receive oral or IV sedation, Dr. Pinkasov thoroughly reviews your medical and medication history. 

When will the effects of sedation dentistry subside? 

The duration of the sedative effect depends on the type and dose of medication used. Oral sedation effects can last a few hours after the procedure, so it's important to have a responsible adult accompany you and drive you home. 

IV sedation effects typically wear off more quickly, allowing for a faster recovery. You will still need a person to drive you home.

If you’d like to find out if you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry, make an appointment at Naples Dental and Wellness Center today. Call the office or use the online tool to schedule.