Sedation Dentistry

“Knock me out, Doc, just wake me when it’s over”. How many times have patients made this request when it comes to experiencing dental treatments.
They want to undergo the procedure but they are not willing to be aware of what’s going on while it is being done. Others are so phobic that they avoid going to the dentist altogether. Research shows that 30%of our population avoids going to the dentist because of fear, and Docs Education estimates that the percentage is closer to 50%. Luckily there is an alternative in helping patients get over their anxiety, and we do not have to “knock out” the patient, as so many request. Conscious sedation is a minimally depressed level of consciousness, yet patients maintain their own airway and reflexes, and respond to physical and verbal stimuli. As a result, the patient is more relaxed, less anxious, and most importantly can interact with the staff if needed. We do not have to support the patient’s breathing, like in Deep Sedation and General anesthesia. Conscious Sedation can be delivered orally or intravenously (IV) . This allows the possibility to deliver dental treatments in minimal visits with no pain and little memory of the experience.

Dr. Hal Huggins discovered that using conscious sedation in dentistry has its added advantages.

Dr. Huggins recommends a strict set of guidelines when removing mercury fillings safely during a Revision (the removal of any and all dental materials and infections that risk compromising the patient’s health). When the patient undergoes IV conscious sedation, the patient can have all procedures, including treating decayed teeth and extractions, performed all in one day. IV conscious sedation is the perfect alternative to a patient who is fearful at the dental office. It not only keeps the patient comfortable and anxiety-free while in the dental chair but also provides the added benefit where all the dental needs are met with a minimal amount of office visits.

I am certified to perform IV conscious sedation in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Patients who do not want to go through the stress of experiencing dental procedures or who want the convenience of minimizing the number of office visits for their treatments are welcome to call our office to set up a consultation so we can discuss the best options for your overall dental health.