Dental anxiety is a common issue that can prevent you from getting the care you need. Sedation dentistry can help and is available to residents of Woodinville, Washington, through the care of Tim Hung, DDS, and the team at Oasis Family Dentistry. Learn more during your next visit, which you can set up over the phone during normal business hours. Online booking is also an option.

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What is dental anxiety, and can sedation dentistry help?

Dental anxiety is a fear of dental treatment or the overall dental office environment. Some people develop dental anxiety after having a negative experience in the dental chair. Others carry fears about dental treatment from childhood. In some cases, there is no clear source of dental anxiety.

Regardless of the cause of your anxiety, finding a way to overcome the condition is a critical part of preserving and enhancing your dental health and hygiene. The team at Oasis Family Dentistry is experienced in working with children and adults who suffer from dental anxiety.

Sedation dentistry can help.

What are some signs I might have dental anxiety?

Many people are nervous about coming in for dental care, especially when they are fairly certain they need a filling or other dental treatment. But dental anxiety is a more serious matter and can cause significant emotional discomfort.

Some of the signs you might have dental anxiety include:

  • Difficulty sleeping the night before a dental visit
  • A strong sensation of physical illness when preparing for a visit
  • Intense negative reactions when dental tools are placed in your mouth
  • Discomfort at the mere thought of dental care
  • Nervousness while sitting in the dental office waiting room

Dental phobia is an advanced form of dental anxiety. People with dental phobia will avoid seeing a dentist until severe pain, or another dental problem compels them to seek care.

Sedation dentistry can help you have a peaceful and painless experience.

How can sedation dentistry help with dental anxiety?

Sedation dentistry offers a way to ease anxiety and make dental visits easier to manage. These tools and techniques have been in use for many years, and numerous studies have found them to be safe and effective.

Nitrous oxide

Also called laughing gas, this odorless, colorless gas delivers mild sedation. You simply breathe the gas through a mask or cannula and enter a state of deep relaxation. You’ll be awake and can respond to your dentist’s requests, but you won’t feel fear or anxiety.

Oral sedation

This option uses an oral medication to help you relax and get through your dental care with ease. You simply take the prescribed medication before your appointment time, and then a numbing injection eliminates all sensation in the treatment area. You may feel the urge to nap during treatment but can easily be roused awake.

If you have questions about how sedation dentistry works, call or click to schedule a consultation to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry in Woodinville

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is ideal for patients with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, difficulty sitting still, or those undergoing lengthy procedures. At Oasis Family Dentistry, we offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation to meet a range of patient needs.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Yes. Sedation dentistry is safe when administered by a trained dental professional. Our team at Oasis Family Dentistry carefully reviews your medical history and current medications before recommending any form of sedation. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities throughout every appointment.

Will I be unconscious during sedation dentistry?

Most forms of dental sedation we offer do not render you unconscious. Nitrous oxide produces a calm, relaxed feeling while you remain fully aware. Oral sedation produces deeper relaxation and some patients may drift into a light sleep but can be easily awakened. General anesthesia (full unconsciousness) is not offered at our office.

Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia, have a sensitive gag reflex, need extensive dental work, have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia alone, or have physical or cognitive conditions that make sitting still challenging. Call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 to discuss your options.

Can children receive sedation at Oasis Family Dentistry?

Nitrous oxide is commonly used for children who experience anxiety during dental procedures and is a safe, well-tolerated option for most pediatric patients. Our team will assess your child’s specific needs and discuss the most appropriate approach during your children’s dentistry consultation.

Do I need someone to drive me home after sedation?

If you receive oral sedation, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours after your appointment. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly and most patients can drive themselves home after a few minutes of breathing pure oxygen at the end of the appointment.

Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?

Coverage for sedation varies by insurance plan. Nitrous oxide may be covered in part for children. Oral sedation may be partially covered when deemed medically necessary. Our team at Oasis Family Dentistry will help verify your benefits and discuss payment options.