Sedation Dentistry
At Over the Mountain Dentistry, our team understands that you may have anxiety around your upcoming dental visit. We pride ourselves on ensuring our patients feel comfortable throughout their appointment. We offer non-pharmacologic options such as sunglasses, headphones and blankets but also know that sometimes these measures are not enough. Dr. Carter utilizes sedation dentistry to reduce fear and stress to allow you a relaxed experience. We offer two main forms of anxiolysis for patients if needed during their appointment: nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.
Nitrous Oxide or "Laughing Gas" | Nitrous oxide is an inhaled medication that can be used for the duration of your treatment. Due to its quick onset and offset, it is the most common form of sedation with the least risks. It is beneficial when you have mild anxiety around your dental cleaning or need a short procedure, such as a filling or crown.
Oral Conscious Sedation | Oral conscious sedation provides a dream like state for the patient alleviating any tension surrounding their treatment. Patients utilizing oral conscious sedation will receive a prescription in advance for an anti-anxiety medication, such as Versed or Midazolam, to take 30 minutes prior to their scheduled visit. A driver will be required to bring you to your appointment and pick you up when your treatment is complete due to the drowsiness associated with the medication.
Since this treatment has more side effects than laughing gas, it is reserved for extended treatment sessions or severe anxiety on a case by case basis after a screening consult with our team. We require 2 weeks advance notice if requesting oral conscious sedation for your visit.
If you are interested in learning more about the sedation services we offer or have questions, you can contact us or call us at 205.968.1296 to schedule a consultation with a team member.