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Sedation Dentistry – Edison, NJ

We Make Your Treatments Easy and Comfortable

Millions of Americans struggle to get the dental services they need all because they are too afraid to sit in the dental chair for long periods of time or even visit the dentist to begin with. Thankfully, Dr. Shah is an expert in helping patients get comfortable, both with sedation services and with the help of his caring and accommodating team members. No matter how simple or complicated you may believe your dental needs might be, Signature Smiles at Edison can make you feel prepared for your next treatment with relaxing sedation dentistry in Edison, NJ!

Why Choose Signature Smiles at Edison for Sedation Dentistry?

  • Dentist Certified in IV and Oral Conscious Sedation
  • General Anesthesia (Sleep Dentistry) Available
  • Comprehensive Patient Comfort Menu Provided

Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry

Woman taking oral conscious sedation pill

Those with more moderate cases of dental fear or anxiety can take advantage of oral conscious sedation, a sedative that comes in the form of a pill that is ingested well before the appointment begins. With the help of a friend or family member, you’ll be driven to the dental office and feeling fully relaxed before any step of your treatment begins. While this sedative does not put you to sleep entirely, it does make it more difficult to remember your experience. You will need a ride home after your appointment so the effects have time to wear off.

Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation

Woman with nitrous oxide dental sedation mask

One of the most common forms of dental sedation available, nitrous oxide sedation is ideal for those with more mild cases of dental anxiety. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a nasal mask that is worn by the patient throughout the entirety of treatment. This creates a warm sensation throughout the body, ensuring a relaxing treatment process from start to finish. Much like oral conscious sedation, you’ll still be awake to let Dr. Shah know if you need assistance or more sedative provided. You’ll even be able to continue your day as the effects of the sedative only take a few minutes to wear off!

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IV Sedation Dentistry

Patient with IV sedation drip

A much stronger form of sedation, IV sedation is delivered directly into the veins through an IV. This makes it much easier to adjust the amount of sedative provided on-the-fly. IV sedation is meant for those with more severe anxiety and/or special needs. However, IV sedation does not put you to sleep entirely, even though some patients may find themselves falling asleep due to the high level of relaxation it provides. Following your treatment, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home. Allow for at least 12 hours to past so the sedative can fully dissipate.

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General Anesthesiology (Sleep Dentistry)

Patient under general anesthesia receiving dental exam

With the help of an in-house anesthesiologist, we can provide an even stronger form of sedation that is typically only found in hospitals. This method, also known as sleep dentistry, works to put the patient into a deep form of sleep, making it ideal for those with extremely severe anxiety or special needs. This option is also ideal for those with a large number of treatments to complete, whether it’s reconstruction surgery or multiple root canals.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

Young woman talking to dentist before procedure

Learning about the different types of sedation dentistry available to you is an important first step toward an anxiety-free dental visit. With that being said, it’s completely natural to still have a few questions on your mind. To make the research process as easy as possible, we’ve responded to a few frequently asked questions below. On the other hand, if you would prefer to speak directly with our sedation dentist in Edison, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment!

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is not only approved by the American Dental Association, but it also has been clinically researched to ensure its safety. Plus, Dr. Shah underwent multiple years of training in intravenous sedation at Montefiore Hospital, making him uniquely qualified to administer treatment. Whether you need help relaxing during preventive, restorative, or cosmetic dental care, he will review your medical history in-depth to ensure you are a candidate. If you are, your vitals will be closely monitored throughout your procedure.

Can I Return to Work or School After My Procedure?

The answer depends on the sedation dentistry method in question. For example, the effects of nitrous oxide dissipate nearly instantaneously, allowing you to drive to and from your appointment. On the other hand, oral conscious sedation lingers, causing many patients to feel drowsy after their visit. Therefore, we require a trusted adult to drive you to and from your visit and recommend taking the rest of the day off from work or school.

Will I Feel Any Pain?

Thanks to local anesthesia, you will be completely numb as our dentist in Edison works on your teeth and gums. Plus, the simultaneous help of the sedation keeps fear and anxiety at bay, ensuring you can completely relax. When it’s time for you to head back home, we will provide you with an extensive list of aftercare instructions, including which foods to avoid, how to minimize swelling, and which over-the-counter medications are approved. Following these best practices will help you remain as comfortable as possible throughout the healing process.

Will I Be Aware of My Surroundings?

Nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation all are designed to put you into a deep state of relaxation while allowing you to remain aware of your surroundings. With that being said, the calming effects may cause you to doze off. Not to worry though! You’ll be easily awakened and able to respond throughout your procedure. The only exception is sleep dentistry, which means you’ll be in a deep form of sleep. Across the board, you can expect a mild to moderate amnesia effect. Not only does this make it difficult to remember your time in the treatment chair, but it helps relieve dental-related anxiety for future visits as well!

If you have spent months or years dreading your next dental appointment, it is important to know it doesn’t have to be that way! To have the anxiety-free, enjoyable dental experience you deserve, contact our office today and find out if sedation dentistry is right for you.