Sedation Dentistry in Seattle
Dr. Rapoport talks about common dental anxiety and the benefits of Relaxation Dentistry.
Overcome Your Fear With Our Relaxation Solutions
If the mere thought of stepping into a dental office causes you anxiety, you are in good company. Millions of people avoid the care they need out of dental fear or phobia, especially when needing treatments that are more complex or involved, like dental implant surgery. Dr. Darrin Rapoport of Pacific Northwest Periodontics in Seattle and his caring team understand your trepidation, and want to help you relinquish the fear barrier keeping you from your best smile.
How we can help?
Why Choose Relaxation for Your Dental Procedure in Seattle?
Relaxation dentistry is at the forefront of customer care when it comes to periodontics. You’ll want to be relaxed during the procedure and recover as quickly as possible after the surgery is done. Dr. Rapoport and his team of experts have many years of experience with caring for patients and ensuring that their procedure goes as smoothly as possible so that you’ll be able to get back to living your life with a happy, healthy new smile.
- Renders you calm and stress-free
- Relaxes your body
- Creates better appreciation for oral health
- Improves your relationship with dentistry
Sedation Solutions for Every Level of Anxiety
Dental fear and anxiety no longer have to stand in the way of your path optimal oral health. Dr. Rapoport is the periodontal and implant specialist other dentists count on for their own healthy smiles, and is ready to deliver the relaxation and periodontal services you need for better quality living. Contact our practice today, and reserve your consultation with our expert.
General Anesthetic
General anesthesia leaves you with no memory of your procedure, and is typically reserved for more complex or extensive surgeries. Our anesthesiologist administers this Relaxation service, allowing Dr. Rapoport to focus solely on your procedure.
Oral Relaxation
Administered by relaxation pill, oral relaxation dissolves your stress and anxiety, leaving you with little or no memory of your procedure.
Nitrous Oxide Relaxation
Breathing this colorless, odorless gas places you right at ease before and throughout your treatment, without any residual side effects.
IV Relaxation
A deeper level, IV relaxation allows you to relax in a “twilight” sleep, though you technically are still conscious and able to respond to instructions.
FAQ’s
How much sedation will I need?
If you are interested in sedation dentistry, you will first consult one of our esteemed doctors, who will discuss your needs with you, including whether you have high levels of anxiety. The appropriate amount of sedation varies depending on the sedation method, the length of your dental procedure, and other important factors related to your dental care. Sedation will be skillfully administered to ensure you are comfortable for the duration of your treatment.
Will I be awake during my dental appointment?
Certain types of sedation, such as IV relaxation, can make you feel so relaxed that you fall asleep; however, you will still be able to communicate with your PNW doctor and follow instructions. Additionally, it is common to have little to no memory of the dental procedure after waking up, making it an ideal solution for patients with higher levels of dental anxiety.
Can I drive home after being sedated?
Most forms of dental sedation can affect your motor skills, which means you will need someone to drive you back home after your dental procedure. However, if you opt to complete your procedure with nitrous oxide, you will not be left with residual side effects, making it a good option if you plan to drive yourself home.
How long do the effects of sedation dentistry last?
If you choose certain dental sedation options, such as IV sedation, you may need a day to feel back to your normal self. When nitrous oxide sedation is used, patients typically need only 15 to 30 minutes for the medicine to wear off.
Who might need sedation for their dental appointment?
Sedation dentistry can benefit a wide range of patients and is designed to make you feel as comfortable as possible while receiving the dental care you need. If you experience any of the following, sedation dentistry may be right for you:
- Heightened levels of anxiety when visiting the dentist
- A sensitive gag reflex
- Tooth sensitivity
- Difficulty controlling movements
What is laughing gas?
Laughing gas is the nickname given to nitrous oxide, a sedation option available at Pacific Northwest Periodontics. It is inhaled through a mask, and its relaxing effects begin within minutes. It is called laughing gas because it provides patients with a sense of euphoria when inhaled.
What should I expect when receiving sedation during my appointment?
Dr. Rapoport will provide you with your choice of sedation medication ahead of your treatment. Depending on your procedure, your teeth and gums will still be numbed, but this process usually does not start until you are fully relaxed and comfortable with proceeding.
Why should I choose Dr. Rapoport for my dental implant needs?
Sedation dentistry should be administered by a skilled and experienced provider. Dr. Rapoport and his team are compassionate experts who understand that the dentist’s chair can be a major source of anxiety for many patients, young and old. He is dedicated to providing excellent dental care, which includes sedation to help patients feel at ease during their appointments. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about the high-quality care offered at Pacific Northwest.
