Sedation Dentistry
Dental Phobia
Is Common
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If you struggle with a fear of the dentist, you are not alone. It is estimated between 50 and 80 percent of adults in the U.S. have some form of dental anxiety.
Am I a Good Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?
Most patients struggling with dental anxiety or phobia make good candidates for sedation dentistry. You may be a good candidate if you have:
A Strong Gag Reflex
A strong gag reflex can make your dentistry procedures take longer, making you more uncomfortable and intensifying your anxiety. Sedation relaxes your gag reflex, making your dental appointments quick and comfortable.
Trouble Sitting Still
Feeling anxious can sometimes cause you to make involuntary movements while in the dental chair. This prolongs your procedure and makes it more difficult for your dentist to provide treatment. Sedation keeps you relaxed and still during your dental appointment.
Avoided Dental Work
If dental anxiety has kept you from receiving necessary dental care, sedation dentistry could be a great solution. You will be awake but completely relaxed throughout your entire appointment, and then you can leave with a healthier smile. You probably won't have any memory of the procedure once the effects of sedation wear off.
Scared of the Dentist? Contact Us to Learn About Sedation Dentistry
Many of our patients that come to our Prattville, AL, practice have some form of dental phobia or anxiety. Our dentists, Matthew D. Holley and Graham Mullins, are experienced in providing safe and effective sedation so all their patients can receive the crucial dental work that promotes and maintains their oral and overall health.
Contact our Prattville, AL, office to learn more about our sedation options and schedule your sedation dentistry consultation.
(334) 358-4848
"I would highly recommend Holley Dental Group!"
Mandy Rosser
2022
Awesome, welcoming staff! I’ve had a dentist fear for awhile but after reading other google reviews, I decided to give them a try. I’m happy I did because I have found my new dentist. They take their time. Chelsea is great!! If you are looking for a dentist and are scared of dentist, I would highly recommend Holley Dental Group!
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JoAnne Greenwell
2022
This group continues to impress me. At every visit I've experienced nothing but true professionalism, genuine caring, and pure kindness. The dental work is top notch! Thank you for all you do!
View On GoogleGood Oral Health Promotes Good Physical Health
For many patients, sedation is what makes it possible to undergo routine dental care. Being able to undergo regular checkups can prevent:
Tooth Decay
An untreated cavity can lead to the need for a root canal or tooth extraction. Missing teeth make it difficult to perform daily tasks like chewing and speaking, while also causing bone atrophy and the need for more intensive dental work like bone grafting or dental implants.
Pneumonia
Your mouth is the entry point to your respiratory and digestive systems. An increase of bacteria in your mouth can put you at risk of pulling that bacteria into your lungs as you breathe. An increase of bacteria in your respiratory tract can lead to pneumonia or other respiratory infections.
Cardiovascular Disease
High levels of bacteria in your mouth can also put you at risk of developing a bacterial infection in your bloodstream. Once in your bloodstream, the bacteria can stay in your heart valves. Gum disease (periodontitis) is also associated with an increased risk of developing this condition.
Endocarditis
This is an infection of the inner lining of your heart. This is also caused by bacteria from other areas of your body, like the mouth, getting into the bloodstream and affecting your heart.
Sedation Options Available at Our Prattville, AL, Office
Our Prattville, AL, office offers three different options for sedation dentistry. The right option for you will be determined by you and your dentist during your visit:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas," is inhaled through a mask that slips over your nose. The mixture of nitrogen and oxygen delivers relaxing effects within minutes. You will remain conscious, but relaxed and peaceful. You will be able to drive home after your dentistry appointment, since the effects wear off shortly after the mask is removed.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a pill at home before arriving to your appointment. Like nitrous oxide, you will remain conscious during your dental work, but you will feel totally relaxed. This type of sedation provides deeper relaxation than nitrous oxide and takes longer to wear off, so you should arrange to have someone take you to and from your appointment.
IV Sedation
For patients with severe dental anxiety or those going through more extensive dental or cosmetic procedures, our Prattville, AL, office offers IV sedation. Like our other types of sedation, IV sedation will induce deep relaxation, but you will not be unconscious. A unique advantage of this option is that it can be immediately adjusted to achieve and maintain your comfort. You must bring an adult driver to accompany you to and from your appointment.
The Cost Of Sedation Dentistry
The cost of sedation dentistry greatly depends on which type of sedation is used, how much sedation is needed, and how long you will need to be sedated. Before your procedure, you will discuss with your dentist which option is best suited for you and what it will cost.
Dental insurance plans do not cover the cost of sedation dentistry unless it is deemed medically necessary. However, our dentistry practice offers financing through CareCredit®. This way, you can break your cost into more manageable monthly payments and still receive the dental care you need.
Our Prattville Patients Love Us "The best dentistry in the state of Ala., hands down."
Jared Bush
2021
Let me start by saying I am not a fan of Dentists!
... But all of these 5 star reviews are not wrong. I had periodontal cleaning and multiple extractions, and Holley and his group could not have been any more kind or professional. This is the best dentistry in the state of Alabama, hands down...
Hazel Coburn
2021
This is by far the best dental office I have ever been to. Everyone is so friendly and nice and have been so considerate of my hearing problem.
I have seen both dentists at different times and have found them to be the best ever in my estimation.
