Sedation Dentistry and Dental Anxiety

Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry 

Oral sedation also known as conscious sedation will help any patient with dental anxiety and fear. This is sometimes the best of the sedation dentistry options because you will be awake, but carefree from all anxiety.

• If you need extensive dental work consider oral sedation as a comfortable solution that will allow you to receive multiple procedures in a single day.
• Patients who have problems getting numb from traditional agents also appreciate oral sedation.
• Dental phobia, a condition that keeps approximately 80 percent of Americans from visiting the dentist, is a very real and very scary problem. Dr. Higginbotham and his associates often suggest oral sedation for patients who feel anxious or stressed when faced with dental care.

Digital Nitrous with Virtual Reality Goggles

Overcome dental anxiety with digital nitrous—virtual reality goggles available right here in our office. We use Opera VR, a drug-free tool that works as effectively as nitrous oxide to help you relax during treatment. Our team can set it up in less than a minute, and it’s completely free for patients. While you receive dental care, you can escape to peaceful oceans, explore vibrant cityscapes, go scuba diving, and much more—all designed to take your mind off the procedure. Instead of focusing on dental fears, you’ll stay calm and entertained. With Opera VR, you can truly relax and leave dental anxiety behind.

Nitrous Oxide (Gas)

Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative that helps you relax during dental procedures. You breathe it in through a small mask placed over your nose, along with oxygen. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide keeps you calm and comfortable throughout treatment. Both adults and children can benefit from this sedation option, which makes dental procedures easier and less stressful. Our team monitors you closely to ensure your comfort, so you can feel at ease while getting the care needed.

IV Sedation

IV Sedation is often a solution for our patients with severe dental anxiety that do not want to be awake during dental procedures. Our dentists work with an oral surgeon in their office to sedate our patients with an IV. Once they have been put to sleep, the dentist will complete the dental procedures needed in one visit, so there is no fear or anxiety. The patient will wake up with all their dental work completed and not have to worry about other treatment appointments. However, this is the most costly sedation option. It is sometimes three to four times the cost of other sedation options, but we accept third-party payment plans through Care Credit.

Book an Appointment

Schedule an exam to discuss which sedation option is right for you. Whether you choose virtual goggles, gas, oral sedation, or IV sedation, you have a great dental experience. Don’t let your dental work fall to the wayside because of fear, scheduling, or numbing problems. Dr. Higginbotham and his associates will help you determine the best plan for your unique case.