Dental anxiety is a common concern for many patients, but it shouldn’t keep you from receiving the care you need. At Tampa Dental Wellness of Westchase, FL, we offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation and IV sedation options so you feel relaxed and at ease during your dental visits.
Our compassionate team understands that your comfort matters. Sedation dentistry is a safe, effective way to reduce anxiety and make your time in the dental chair much more pleasant.
What Sedation Dentistry Options Are Available?
Nitrous oxide sedation is a mild form of sedation dentistry that uses a blend of nitrous oxide and oxygen to keep you calm and comfortable during your dental treatment. The gas is inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose, and its effects begin within minutes.
This method allows you to remain awake and responsive while feeling more relaxed. The effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed, so you can safely drive yourself home and return to your normal activities soon after your appointment.
With oral sedation, a gentle sedative medication is administered in pill form. Patients are usually instructed to take their sedative at a specified time before the dental appointment even begins. The medication takes effect once the patient arrives at the office. Oral sedation induces a gentle daydream-like state and reduces your awareness of the appointment, but you can still respond to questions from the dentist.
As a deeper form of sedation, intravenous (IV) sedation administers medication directly into your bloodstream. Patients will feel the effects of this dental sedation method soon after they’re hooked up to the IV. Patients are conscious while under IV sedation, but they may have no memories of the procedure. They often feel as though they slept through the appointment. Dr. Creech-Gionis has advanced training in administering IV sedation.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation is ideal for patients who feel anxious about dental visits, have a sensitive gag reflex, or need extra support staying comfortable during longer procedures. It’s also a great choice for children or adults with mild to moderate dental fear.
Sedation can be beneficial for:
- Patients with dental anxiety or fear
- Those with sensitive teeth or gums
- Children who are nervous about treatment
- People with a strong gag reflex
- Anyone who wants a more comfortable dental experience
Our Westchase team will discuss your health history and concerns to determine if sedation dentistry is right for you.
What to Expect During Your Sedation Dentistry Visit in Westchase?
When you choose sedation dentistry at Tampa Dental Wellness of Westchase, your visit begins with a conversation about your needs and comfort level to determine the right path for you. Then, we monitor you closely throughout your procedure, and your level of sedation can be adjusted at any time.
“I’ve always been nervous about dental visits, but sedation dentistry at Tampa Dental Wellness of Westchase changed everything for me. The team was so understanding and made sure I felt safe and relaxed. My procedure was quick and painless, and I left feeling relieved and grateful,” one relieved patient shared.
Experience Calm and Comfort During Your Dental Visits
Yes, sedation dentistry is very safe when provided by experienced professionals like our team in Westchase. We carefully review your medical history, monitor you throughout your visit and use proven, gentle sedation methods for your safety and peace of mind.
With sedation and local anesthesia, you should feel relaxed and comfortable. Most patients experience little to no pain during their procedure. Our team is here to make sure your visit is as calm and stress-free as possible.
If you choose nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you recover quickly and can usually return to your normal activities right away. For oral sedation or IV sedation, you may feel drowsy for a few hours, so you’ll need someone to drive you home and help you rest.
Nitrous oxide is safe and commonly used for children who feel nervous about dental treatment. Our team will discuss your child’s needs and answer any questions you have.
No, you will remain awake and able to respond to questions or instructions, but you’ll feel much more relaxed during your procedure.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to get started? Call us at (813) 855-2273 or request an appointment online. We look forward to caring for your smile.