Overcoming Dental Anxiety: Discover Sedation Dentistry at Owens Dental Berthoud

At our biologic dental practice, we understand that dental anxiety can be a barrier to achieving the smile you deserve. That’s why we’ve invested in gentle technologies designed to put you at ease. Our skilled team in Berthoud, Colorado, is dedicated to providing optimal care for your oral health.

To further enhance your comfort during treatments, we can also incorporate trusted supports, including sedation dentistry. Together, these approaches ensure a relaxing experience as you work towards maintaining a healthy, radiant smile.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation largely involves using a sedative or medication to help you relax. At Owens Dental Berthoud, we understand that not everyone enjoys dentistry as much as we do; therefore, sedation can be a wonderful option for those experiencing dental anxiety or fear. Our goal is to help these patients who might otherwise not get the routine treatment they need due to their fear of the dentist. Sedation may also be appropriate for patients with more “mild” anxiety or apprehension about an upcoming treatment.

Would Sedation Dentistry Be Right for You?

Many individuals can benefit from sedation dentistry. If you have sensitive teeth or an exaggerated gag reflex, sedation can help alleviate discomfort and anxiety, allowing us to perform services and procedures comfortably, safely, and efficiently.

We may also recommend sedation for longer or more complex treatments, enabling us to accomplish more in a single visit and reducing the need for multiple appointments. We encourage you to share any concerns you may have with us so we can tailor your experience to address your specific triggers and ensure a positive outcome.

What happens when I’m sedated?

The exact steps depend on the type of sedation that is most appropriate for you. We offer two different types of sedation: IV and oral. The former option is administered intravenously or directly into the bloodstream. The latter method is administered orally or by mouth as a tablet or pill. Most patients are conscious but quite relaxed for their appointment and do not need to be woken up afterward. Effects can range from a gentle calm to drowsy or sleepy, depending on what you and your provider deem the best fit for you. Once sedation is administered, the provider will wait for it to take effect before beginning the procedure. A driver is required to and from your appointment.

What option is best for me?

Oral sedation is generally a “lighter” method. It helps to take the “edge” off for those patients with more mild anxiety. The dosage can be controlled and tailored, though. So, it may also be used for those patients who prefer to sleep through the entire procedure. IV sedation is largely for those individuals with more severe anxiety or fear or other health challenges that have presented obstacles to their getting the care that they need in the past. With both methods, it is required to arrange for someone to drive you to and from our office, as these sedatives do cause lingering drowsiness.

Why choose Owens Dental Berthoud?

As biologic dentistry providers, we respect the connections between the health of the mouth and the health of the body. One of the best things you can do for your health is to maintain routine check-ups – exams and cleanings. However, fear and other challenges can stand between you and these essential preventative services. We are here to help and will work with you to ease any fears or concerns and lift those barriers to your best smile and health. Do not delay in calling us at (970) 444-5464.