If you have a fear of the dentist and can’t remember the last time you set foot inside a dental office, it’s time to get some help. Dental fear is a real and potentially debilitating condition. It can keep you from the dental care you need for your oral and overall health.
I’m Dr. Brad Greenfield, and I treat patients who have varying levels of dental fear at my Lake Orion, Michigan office. I offer three options for sedation to address mild, moderate, and significant dental phobia or physical discomfort. If you have a strong gag reflex or an inability to numb with traditional anesthesia, sedation dentistry may be for you, as well.
At your consultation appointment, I will sit down and have a candid conversation with you about your concerns and fears. It is necessary for you to be honest, so that I can fully meet your needs and give you the best care possible at Lake Orion Family Dentistry. Once I feel I have a solid grasp on your needs and previous experiences, I will develop a plan to provide you with a relaxing experience while you’re in my dental chair.
Most people know nitrous oxide as laughing gas. This sedation method is administered in my office to enhance patient comfort and relieve anxiety for patients of all ages. This gas is inhaled through a facemask, while the amount of nitrous oxide you receive is controlled and monitored to ensure your safety. This sedation method helps you to relax and no longer recognize pain, so I can perform your dental work while you stay completely comfortable.
Intravenous (IV) sedation is the next strongest sedation I offer to my patients. I partner with a licensed anesthesiologist to provide IV sedation in my on-site surgical suite. This sedation method is ideal if you are highly anxious or fearful about your dental work. If you require many dental procedures in a short time or do not respond well to traditional anesthesia, IV sedation may be for you, as well.
Oral sedation is an alternative to nitrous oxide. After ingesting a small oral sedative, you will feel groggy and comfortable. Often, oral sedation is combined with nitrous oxide to enhance the sedation effects. If you have a sensitive gag reflex, moderate anxiety, or physical discomfort, I will most likely suggest oral sedation.
To find out more about sedation dentistry or to schedule a consultation, please call my office at (248) 693-6213. It’s time to overcome your dental fears and get the care you need.
