Relieve Dental Anxiety with Sedation Dentistry
For some patients, going to the dentist feels like a huge feat. In certain cases, this may even prevent individuals from receiving the dental care they need, as they are trying to avoid the anxiety they associate with certain dental procedures. Dr. Darrin Rapoport of Pacific Northwest Periodontics is happy to offer sedation dentistry to help his patients feel as relaxed as possible during their dental treatment. Continue reading to learn more about the sedation options available.
About Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry helps patients feel at ease during dental procedures. Each sedation option offers a different level of sedation, and Dr. Rapoport will work with the patient to select the most appropriate option. Although the patient will feel carefree under dental sedation, they will still be awake and able to follow instructions for a smooth and efficient dental treatment. A term often associated with dental sedation is “twilight sleep,” which creates a state of short-term amnesia within the patient that allows them to feel less pain without losing consciousness.
Who Should Take Advantage of Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry benefits patients of all ages and is typically recommended for individuals who have:
- Gum and tooth sensitivity
- Dental anxiety
- A fear of pain
- A sensitive gag reflex
Sedation Options
General anesthesia: General anesthesia can be used in dentistry during complex procedures or those that may require a lot of time to complete. It is also ideal in cases where the patient has severe dental anxiety or even when treating young children. The patient is unconscious during their treatment and retains no memory of the procedure afterward. It is administered by an anesthesiologist.
Oral relaxation pill: Oral relaxation is provided to the patient in pill form before their procedure and immediately works to relieve stress. It is common for patients who have this type of sedation to have little or no memory of their time in the dental chair.
IV relaxation: The state known as “twilight sleep” can be achieved with IV relaxation, which places the patient in a relaxed state that allows them to still be conscious.
Laughing gas: Perhaps the most recognizable form of sedation in this list is laughing gas, otherwise known as nitrous oxide. Patients receive laughing gas by inhaling nitrous oxide through a mask where the relaxing effects begin within five minutes. Dr. Rapoport controls the level of sedation and adjusts it as necessary during the procedure to ensure you remain comfortable and stress-free. Laughing gas leaves the system quickly after dental treatment, which means that patients can drive themselves home after leaving their appointments.
Schedule Your Appointment
For an elevated dental experience free from anxiety, consider sedation dentistry at Pacific Northwest Periodontics. Here, Dr. Rapoport and his welcoming team are ready to help you achieve excellent dental health. Contact our office or request an appointment online today.
Smile Gallery
The Experienced Team at Pacific Northwest specializes in the treatment of Periodontics and Dental Implants. Click below to view some of our transformative work.
Contact Us Today
Our Financial Services
We work with Alphaeon Credit and Care Credit for financial assistance. Contact our offices for additional information or click below to learn more.
> Learn more
411 Strander Blvd,
Suite 302
Seattle, WA 98188
- Monday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Tuesday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Wednesday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Thursday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Friday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Saturday Closed
- Sunday Closed