about Sedation Dentistry
What is Sedation Dentistry or “Sleep Dentistry”?
Sedation Dentistry is a wonderful way to have your dentistry completed. It can take many forms. The first and probably most well-known form is laughing gas or Nitrous Oxide. Along with oxygen, nitrous oxide can be given to patients nasally and creates a light or sometimes heavy feeling that many people describe as similar to having a few glasses of wine. But the great part is there is no hangover! And, you can drive yourself to and from your appointments. Nitrous oxide is very safe and has been used very successfully for years by dentists. We also provide a service called Nu-Calm™. This procedure is an all natural sedation method that causes a deep relaxation without any chemicals or medications. Some of our patients swear that this is as close as it gets to a Zen type of dental experience.
Mild Conscious to moderate conscious sedation dentistry can be achieved through the use of an oral sedative cocktail or administered intravenously. This creates an experience of what you might experience while dreaming. Patients lose track of time and often fall comfortably asleep. This type of sedation requires an escort as patients will not be able to drive a car or operate at full capacity for around 24 hours. With this type of sedation dentistry, most patients don't even remember their visit to the office.
General Anesthesia is the strongest and most powerful form of sedation dentistry provided at the Ballantyne Center for Dentistry. Many times there are situations where dentistry should be done when you are completely unconscious. If you require this deepest form of sedation, fear not, we can help.
The doctors at Ballantyne Dentistry are certified in oral sedation by DOCS (Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation). In addition, Dr. Joe and Dr. Satterlee have received certification in I.V. Dental Sedation. General anesthesia is provided at the Ballantyne Center for Dentistry by our board certified anesthesia group.
