Sedation Dentistry, or "Sleep" Dentistry, is able to reach out and provide needed dental care to those who otherwise would not receive it.

We recognize that there are many reasons why 50% of the U.S. population do not receive dental care, but two of the most common reasons are:

• Extreme anxiety
• No time for multiple appointments

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry bridges the gap between new technology and patient comfort. After an initial consultation, your Sedation Dentistry appointment will be scheduled. You are given a small pill to make you snooze through your dental appointment. Even though you are not technically asleep, our patients describe the experience as seeming to be asleep. You will have little or no memory of the appointment. You will not even remember any sounds or smells.

With Sedation Dentistry, you will find that your treatment is performed more comfortably than you might ever have thought possible. You will be drowsy and unaware of the time passing by. During the entire appointment you will be monitored continually by our specially trained team of professionals.

Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry is especially useful for adult patients who:

• Have high anxiety about dental visits
• Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
• Have difficulty getting numb
• Have a strong gag reflex
• Have TMJ troubles and cannot open their mouth for extended periods
• Are afraid of needles
• Have sensitive teeth
• Hate the noises and/or smells associated with dental care
• Simply do not have the time for multiple visits

Sedation Dentistry is only for adult patients. Dr. Helvey will schedule a consultation appointment first to answer any questions and screen for any medical reasons you may not be eligible for Sedation Dentistry.

What to Expect at a Sedation Dentistry Appointment.

You will take a small pill approximately 1 hour prior to arriving at our office. You will need to have a companion drive you to the office since you will not be able to drive yourself. By the time you arrive at the office, you will feel very drowsy.

You will be escorted by our staff to a comfortable chair and a small electronic sensor will be placed on your fingertip. This sensor allows us to monitor your vital signs during the entire procedure. When you are snoozing comfortably, Dr. Helvey will begin your dental care. When the Doctor is finished with your treatment, your companion will drive you home. You probably will not even remember being at our office.

Frequently Asked Questions.

Will I be unconscious?

No, you will be very relaxed, but you will be able to respond. You will probably not, however, remember any of your visit.

Will I have an IV?

No tubes or needles are necessary for the sedation. You just simply swallow a pill.

Does my companion have to stay at the office?

Your companion must drive you to our office for your appointment and return you home afterwards. During the actual procedure, your companion is free to stay, or leave and come back to pick you up at the end of the procedure.

Is there an age limit?

Sedation Dentistry is recommended for adults age 18 to 80, but a careful screening will be performed, during the consultation phase, for any medical conditions that may prevent you from being a candidate.

Will I feel anything?

No, you will feel no discomfort.

How long will I be snoozing?

You will be sedated for 2 to 8 hours, depending on your dental care needs.