At Dr. Teeth in Reno, we understand that going to the dentist can be stressful for many patients. If you struggle with dental anxiety or feel nervous about dental procedures, you’re not alone. Sedation options are available as part of our general dental care to help make routine visits less stressful. Dr. Alison Defilippi and her team are here to help with sedation dentistry. We use safe and effective oral conscious sedation to make your dental visit more comfortable and relaxed. You can get the care you need without worry.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. At Dr. Teeth, we offer oral conscious sedation, a method that allows you to stay awake but in a deeply relaxed state. This type of sedation helps reduce feelings of anxiety, making it easier for you to undergo treatment without stress or discomfort.
Oral conscious sedation is taken in pill form before your appointment. The sedative works to calm your nerves while keeping you aware enough to respond to questions or instructions from the dentist. Many patients report feeling drowsy or detached from the procedure, making it a much more pleasant experience.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
At Dr. Teeth, Dr. Defilippi wants to make you feel as relaxed as possible throughout your treatment. During your consultation, they will discuss your dental history and any concerns you have to help determine whether sedation is right for you. Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience:
- Dental Anxiety or Fear
- Sensitive Teeth or Gums
- Strong Gag Reflex
- Difficulty Sitting Still
- Complex or Lengthy Procedures
- Previous Traumatic Experiences
Sedation dentistry helps you get the treatment you need in fewer visits. It reduces stress and makes appointments easier. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a bigger procedure, we can help you feel calm, comfortable, and confident during your visit.
Is Sedation Safe?
Yes, oral conscious sedation is a safe and effective option for patients who feel anxious about dental visits. At Dr. Teeth in Reno, we use carefully controlled doses of medication to help you relax while remaining awake and able to respond during your dental procedure. We use medications that are designed to be safe and short-acting.
You may not be a good candidate if you:
- Have serious heart, liver, or kidney problems
- Take medications that interact with sedatives (some antidepressants, antifungal drugs, or seizure medications)
- Have a history of severe respiratory issues or sleep apnea
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a history of substance abuse or sensitivity to sedatives
Before treatment, Dr. Defillippi will review your medical history, current medications, and overall health. Our team can also monitor your vitals throughout the procedure.
Overcoming Dental Anxiety with Oral Conscious Sedation
Dental anxiety is a common issue that prevents many people from getting the care they need. Whether it’s past negative experiences or the sounds and smells of a dental office, dental anxiety can make even routine check-ups feel overwhelming.
At Dr. Teeth, we strive to create a calm and welcoming environment where every patient feels heard and understood. Dr. Defilippi will take the time to explain each step of your treatment. When combined with sedation dentistry, these efforts can make your visit much more comfortable.
How Sedation Works
For patients with severe anxiety, oral conscious sedation is an excellent way to ease nerves and make dental care feel manageable. Many of our patients who’ve tried sedation dentistry find they can undergo procedures they once dreaded. This helps them maintain their oral health without the fear that used to hold them back.
On the day of your procedure, you will take a pill form sedative about 30–60 minutes before your appointment. The medication starts working gradually, helping you feel calm, relaxed, and less aware of any anxiety. Most patients describe feeling drowsy or pleasantly detached while still being able to follow instructions from Dr. Defilippi.
Monitoring During the Procedure
Throughout your treatment, our team carefully monitors your vitals, including your heart rate, oxygen levels, and overall comfort. This ensures that your sedation is safe and effective from start to finish. Because oral conscious sedation allows you to remain responsive, Dr. Teeth can communicate with you during the procedure to answer questions or guide you as needed.
If you’ve been avoiding the dentist because of anxiety or fear, sedation dentistry at Dr. Teeth can help. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, stress-free care for every patient. With oral conscious sedation, we can ensure your visit is comfortable and relaxing, so you can get the care you need.
Sedation Aftercare
You want to take a few steps to make sure you recover safely and comfortably. Oral conscious sedation helps you relax during your dental procedure, but it can leave you feeling drowsy or lightheaded for several hours afterward.
Most patients will need someone to drive them home and stay with them for a short period. You should rest for the rest of the day and avoid activities that require focus. Don’t drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions. We recommend that most patients stay home and not return to work or school for at least a day.
You may notice mild grogginess, dry mouth, or slight nausea, which usually go away on their own. Eating soft foods and drinking water can help you feel better. Follow our instructions about medications or oral care, and contact us if you notice anything unusual.
Schedule a Consultation for Relaxing Dental Care
Are you ready to experience a different kind of dental care? Contact Dr. Teeth for dental sedation in Reno, NV. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Alison Defilippi on our website or call (775) 206-0856. We’ll discuss your needs, answer your questions, and determine if sedation dentistry is the right option for you.
Don’t let dental anxiety stand in the way of a healthy smile. Let us help you feel at ease during your next visit! We’re proud to serve dental patients who live in Midtown, West Reno, and Sparks.