Sedation Dentistry

At the office of Family Dental Center, we're dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care. For more information on our office and the many services we provide, give us a call today.

Dental anxiety affects an estimated 30 to 40 million people in the United States. If you are among the many who struggle with fear or anxiety when it comes time to visit the dentist, the office of Family Dental Center can help. We're dedicated to our patients' care and comfort. We offer safe, controlled sedation techniques to alleviate anxiety and make it easier and less stressful to maintain excellent oral health.

If you have dental anxiety or dental phobia, you may find yourself skipping checkups as well as avoiding getting the care you need. However, letting fear get in the way of dental treatment not only takes a toll on your oral health but can also affect your overall well-being. The good news is that sedation dentistry enables anxious patients and those who have difficulty sitting for treatment the benefits of maintaining optimal oral health. By creating a deep sense of calm and relaxation, dental sedation helps ease any fears and apprehension associated with care.

Don't let fear get in the way of maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile any longer! As skilled and compassionate providers of care, we'll explain the types of dental sedation we offer and answer all your questions throughout the course of treatment. In addition to helping you feel completely at ease, sedation typically makes a lengthy procedure feel like it's over in just a few minutes. Although you'll feel fully relaxed while sedated, you'll still be able to respond to verbal cues from our dentist. You merely won't feel bothered at all by the moment-to-moment details of treatment. We'll inform you if the type of sedation you're receiving requires someone to accompany you to the office and home following treatment.

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The Guide Will Show You

  • Sedation Options

  • Eligibility Factors

  • Sedation FAQ's

  • And more!

About dental sedation

Sedation dentistry offers individuals with general anxiety about going to the dentist or fears about a specific dental procedure the opportunity to have a stress free and more comfortable experience. By utilizing safe and controlled sedation techniques before a dental procedure, the patient is eased into a state of complete relaxation. This step eliminates any discomfort, pain, and preoperative anxiety that may be associated with a particular dental visit. With sedation dentistry, patients typically feel more at ease post-operatively as they have little or no memory of the actual moment-to-moment dental procedure.

At the office of Family Dental Center, we are committed to creating a comfortable and caring environment for our patients. While we always use a local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the treatment area so that patients do not feel any discomfort, some individuals may feel they need an additional option to reduce their anxiety and have a more relaxed experience. For these patients who are apprehensive about dental work or a particular procedure, we'll discuss safe and effective options in dental sedation.

Reasons to consider dental sedation

While the reasons for choosing dental sedation can vary, some of the more common explanations include the following:

  • Dental phobia - Sedation dentistry offers an excellent solution for patients whose fear of seeing the dentist is so disabling that they are otherwise willing to forego care.

  • Anxiety about a particular procedure - Sedation dentistry offers patients who feel anxious about specific procedures a more positive and stress-free treatment experience.

  • Extensive dental work - When extensive dental work requires patients to sit in the chair with their mouths open for long visits, sedation dentistry can help ensure greater comfort while making time seem to pass more quickly. Sedation dentistry also offers patients who cannot make multiple trips for care the option of getting more work done over fewer visits.

  • Powerful gag reflex - For patients with a strong gag reflex, it can be as uncomfortable for the patient to tolerate care as it is difficult for the dentist to provide it. With sedation, the patient is comfortable, more relaxed, and can tolerate treatment without gagging.

  • Sensitive teeth and gums – Even if the work does not involve a particular tooth or area of the mouth, for patients with hypersensitive teeth and gums, getting dental treatment with instruments, suction, a water spray, and other stimuli can feel terribly uncomfortable. In these cases, dental sedation can help provide a much more comfortable treatment experience.

  • Difficulty sitting for dental work – In addition to dental anxiety, it may be difficult for some young children or patients with disabilities, special needs, cognitive impairment, or certain medical conditions to sit still for dental care. Dental sedation enables the delivery of care to provide routine treatment and alleviate dental problems to maintain optimal oral health.

Ditch the Fear: Sedation Dentistry is Here to Help

Tired of being scared to go to the dentist? Sedation dentistry is here to help. Learn how it can help you feel relaxed and comfortable during your dental visits.

What are the options for dental sedation?

At the office of Family Dental Center, we provide skilled, experienced care that's tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Our dental team strives to make every visit to our office a positive and informative experience. Depending on a patient's specific needs and relevant medical history, we'll discuss the most appropriate method of dental sedation and the services our office provides.

How is a root canal procedure performed?

The difference between conscious sedation and general anesthesia

It's essential to understand the difference between the methods of conscious sedation performed in a dental office and general anesthesia provided in a hospital setting. For most patients that choose or require dental sedation, conscious sedation will suffice.

With conscious sedation, a patient experiences greater comfort and relaxation during a dental procedure while remaining aware of verbal commands and responsive to specific stimuli. Breathing is unassisted and cardiovascular function remains stable. On the other hand, general anesthesia puts patients in a deep state of sleep where they are not responsive to stimuli. General anesthesia is reserved for patients who cannot tolerate the provision of care with any other form of sedation and is administered by an anesthesiologist in a hospital setting.

Conscious sedation in the dental office

Every patient is unique. The method of conscious sedation selected depends on a patient's specific needs, relevant medical history, and the extent of required dental work.

While all types of conscious sedation allow the patient to relax and feel comfortable during a dental procedure, the level of sedation differs depending on which of the following methods is employed.

  • Inhalation sedation (Nitrous Oxide or “Laughing Gas”)

    Commonly referred to as "laughing gas," nitrous oxide is used as a mild sedative to reduce anxiety and facilitate relaxation during dental procedures. It's inhaled through a small mask over the nose and administered for optimal safety in combination with oxygen. Used for the duration of a dental procedure, nitrous oxide gets turned off as work comes to an end. Once the laughing gas gets turn off, the effects wear off very quickly, and the patient returns to a state of complete awareness. Beyond addressing mild to moderate anxiety levels, inhalation sedation can help reduce gagging in patients with a strong gag reflex.

  • Oral Sedation

    Oral sedation offers a relaxed and comfortable experience with little to no anxiety. With this method, patients are given a prescription for an oral medication before their appointment. When taken at the recommended time before their visit, this medication allows patients to feel entirely relaxed by the time their procedure begins. With oral sedation, a patient must have an escort on the day of the procedure to drive them to and from the dental office.

  • IV Sedation

    IV Sedation involves a sedative that is administered intravenously or directly into a vein. It is indicated when more profound sedation is required. This type of sedation starts to work very quickly and can get readily modified to regulate the patient's state of consciousness as well as continued for as long as the procedure requires.

    IV Sedation requires an empty stomach. Patients receiving this type of sedation will be instructed how many hours in advance of their surgical procedure they should stop eating or drinking. In addition to this, patients receiving IV sedation will need to have an escort present for the appointment and on hand to drive them home when the visit is completed.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry offers patients with general anxiety or fears about a dental procedure the opportunity to have a more comfortable and stress-free experience. By utilizing safe and controlled sedation techniques, the patient is eased into a state of complete relaxation before the procedure. This approach eliminates discomfort, pain, and preoperative anxiety and typically makes patients feel more at ease post-operatively, as they have little or no memory of the actual moment-to-moment procedure.

What is the difference between local anesthesia and dental sedation?

Local anesthesia involves an injection directly into or close to the area where a procedure is being performed. While it eliminates any sensation of pain in the targeted area, it does not affect your state of mind or level of anxiety. When a patient receives sedation, additional medications to ease anxiety and promote relaxation are employed in advance of local anesthesia. In this way, both the stress and discomfort associated with a procedure are eliminated. Sedation can be administered in various forms based upon patient needs and the dentist or dental anesthesiologist's recommendations.

What are the different types of dental sedation?

Choosing the most appropriate sedation method for a procedure depends on a variety of factors such as a patient's medical history and their level of anxiety. Dental sedation can come in the form of nitrous oxide sedation, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Certain patients receiving comprehensive treatment or undergoing a complicated surgical procedure may require general anesthesia in a hospital setting.

Am I a candidate for dental sedation?

It's no secret that patients who feel at ease during dental visits are more likely to pursue the care they need. If you experience significant anxiety about trips to the dentist or a particular procedure, dental sedation offers a solution for keeping your smile in tip-top condition while experiencing a more relaxing and stress-free visit. At the office of Family Dental Center, we're sensitive to our patients' needs and dedicated to ensuring their comfort. Based on your level of anxiety, your medical history, and the dental treatment that's required, we'll explain your options in dental sedation and help you select the safest method that's right for you.

Is dental sedation safe?

Sedation dentistry offers a safe and effective way to provide the required dental care while reducing a patient's anxiety and ensuring optimal comfort. Before a type of dental sedation gets recommended, all factors, including a patient's medical history, level of anxiety, dental needs, and other relevant factors, are carefully reviewed. Every method of sedation is provided and supervised by a qualified, trained dentist or physician and administered in the appropriate setting.

Does dental insurance cover the cost of dental sedation?

Keep in mind that it's always wise to invest in your smile and prevent bigger and more costly problems down the road. While many insurance plans do not typically cover sedation dentistry, it may be approved if a patient has a disability or medical condition that makes it impossible to receive care otherwise. General anesthesia might also be covered when it's a medical necessity to have treatment.

It's always best to contact your insurance provider for clarification and an exact explanation of your dental benefits and coverage. At the office of Family Dental Center, our goal is to help patients get the care they need without additional stress or delay. We're happy to answer all your financial questions and discuss all your options for getting the care you require.

Why choose the office of Family Dental Center?

At the office of Family Dental Center, patient care and comfort are our top priorities. We take pride in offering a comprehensive range of advanced services while providing precise, gentle treatment and stress-free solutions for all of your dental healthcare needs. We're dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled, compassionate care. You can feel confident that your smile is in the best of hands with us. To learn more about our office, or schedule an appointment to begin care, give us a call today.

Any questions about

Sedation Dentistry?

Meet our doctors

In our dental practice, we have an experienced, talented, and caring staff committed to

assisting you and your family enjoy a relaxing and stress-free visit for all of your dental needs.

Dr. Patrick Peters

Dr. Patrick Peters is a Northern Kentucky native but treats Anderson County as his second home. Dr. Peters has a wonderful wife, Leslie, and four great boys. A graduate of the University of Louisville in 2000. Dr Peters has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years and is committed to serving his patients. His interests in dentistry include sedation dentistry, implant dentistry, TMJ issues, oral surgery and Dental Exocad CAD/CAM Technology.

Dr. Jason Chen

Dr. Patrick Peters is a Northern Kentucky native but treats Anderson County as his second home. Dr. Peters has a wonderful wife, Leslie, and four great boys. A graduate of the University of Louisville in 2000. Dr Peters has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years and is committed to serving his patients. His interests in dentistry include sedation dentistry, implant dentistry, TMJ issues, oral surgery and Dental Exocad CAD/CAM Technology.

Dr. Chassity Betzing

Dr. Chassity Betzing has called central Kentucky home for the last 19 years. Originally from Northern California, she moved following the military after her grandmother's recommendation. She has deep roots from Eastern Kentucky, where her grandmother is from. Dr. Betzing completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Kentucky with a degree in Biology. She continued with her DMD degree from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Betzing's interests/experience in dentistry include Pinhole Surgical Technique, Implantology, sedation dentistry, and she has a passion for cosmetic dentistry and facial esthetics.

Dr. Nancy Shackleton

Dr. Nancy Shackleton has been the Orthodontist at Family Dental Center for 21 years. Dr. Shackleton became an orthodontist largely because of treatment she received as an adolescent. “I loved the environment I was treated in, with happy energetic people creating a beautiful smile for me, and that is exactly what we try to give our patients today!!”

Our patients love us

Latest Reviews

Family Dental Associates

Frankfort

Our office is located at 1006 Leawood Dr Suite 200, Frankfort, K 40601 with easy parking available in our lot and access to nearby public buses.

Phone

(502) 223-0211

Email

Office Hours

Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

Address

1006 Leawood Dr Suite 200, Frankfort, KY 40601

Don't wait any longer to receive the highest quality dental care in Frankfort.

If you are looking for a highly trained and experienced dentist in Frankfort, you hav come to the right place. At our practice, you will receive the highest quality dental

care. Our dental office uses the latest state-of-the-art equipment and cutting edge technology and we uphold the strictest sterilization techniques.

Family Dental Associates Frankfort Location

Our office is located at 1006 Leawood Dr Suite 200, Frankfort, KY 40601 with easy parking available in our lot and access to nearby public buses.

Phone

+1 (502) 223-0211

Email

Office Hours

Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

Address

1006 Leawood Dr Suite 200, Frankfort, KY 40601

Meet our doctors

In our dental practice, we have an experienced, talented, and caring staff committed to

assisting you and your family enjoy a relaxing and stress-free visit for all of your dental needs.

Dr. Patrick Peters

Dr. Patrick Peters is a Northern Kentucky native but treats Anderson County as his second home. Dr. Peters has a wonderful wife, Leslie, and four great boys. A graduate of the University of Louisville in 2000. Dr Peters has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years and is committed to serving his patients. His interests in dentistry include sedation dentistry, implant dentistry, TMJ issues, oral surgery and Dental Exocad CAD/CAM Technology.

Dr. Jason Chen

Jason Chen is originally from Southern China, he moved to Kentucky at age 11 and has been here ever since. He also speaks fluently in Mandarin. Dr. Chen completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Louisville with a degree in Biology. He continued with his DMD degree from the University of Louisville.

Dr. Chassity Betzing

Dr. Chassity Betzing has called central Kentucky home for the last 19 years. Originally from Northern California, she moved following the military after her grandmother's recommendation. She has deep roots from Eastern Kentucky, where her grandmother is from. Dr. Betzing completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Kentucky with a degree in Biology. She continued with her DMD degree from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Betzing's interests/experience in dentistry include Pinhole Surgical Technique, Implantology, sedation dentistry, and she has a passion for cosmetic dentistry and facial esthetics.

Dr. Nancy Shackleton

Dr. Nancy Shackleton has been the Orthodontist at Family Dental Center for 21 years. Dr. Shackleton became an orthodontist largely because of treatment she received as an adolescent. “I loved the environment I was treated in, with happy energetic people creating a beautiful smile for me, and that is exactly what we try to give our patients today!!”

our patients love us

Latest Reviews

Don't wait any longer to receive

the highest quality dental care

in Frankfort

If you are looking for a highly trained and experienced dentist in Frankfort, you have come to the right place. At our practice, you will receive the highest quality dental care. Our dental office uses the latest state-of-the-art equipment and cutting edge technology and we uphold the strictest sterilization techniques.

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