Thanks to sedation dentistry thousands now enjoy visits to Ballantyne Center for Dentistry even though they once feared going to the dentist.

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.

What are the benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

Being sedated while you have dental work completed brings with it many benefits. Your anxiety will be relieved, you will be less aware or totally unaware of the procedure being carried out and your fear will be a thing of the past.

Who should consider Sedation Dentistry?

If the thought of dental treatment fills you with dread, then sedation dentistry is well worth considering. Whether you have a phobia or something less, by allowing your dentist to sedate you, dental treatment can be carried out quickly and efficiently.

Sedation is right for anyone who wants the dental care they need without the pain or fear they’ve come to expect. It is particularly useful if you:

Have fears that make you delay or avoid proper dental care
Have had a bad experience with dentists in the past
Have a strong gag reflex
Suffer acute or chronic jaw soreness
Dislike the sights, sounds and smells associated with a dental office
Have trouble getting numb
Need a lot of dental work done, but don’t have time for several appointments
Are embarrassed about the condition of your teeth and want to take action
Have sensitive teeth
Hate the sight of needles
Physical limitations such as back or neck problems