Everyone needs regular dental care to maintain or restore the health of their teeth and gums, but some people avoid procedures because the mere thought of them is extremely stressful. Fortunately, patients can request sedation dentistry to calm their nerves and help them get the treatment they need without fear of pain. Dr. Michael L. Kinsley, D.M.D., offers this service in his Perry, GA, clinic and answers frequently asked questions about it so you will know what to expect.

Answers to 4 FAQs About Sedation Dentistry

How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?

Dr. Kinsley’s team provides sedation through a three-part series of medications. You’ll take one pill the night before your appointment and another an hour before you arrive at the dentist office. You will consume the third medication and a supplement right before dental work begins. These drugs will make you comfortable while the dentist cares for your teeth. The sedatives will prevent pain sensations commonly associated with restorative treatments like root canals and tooth extractions.

What Does It Feel Like?

Through this method, you will remain conscious and responsive to your dentist during your procedure. However, you will become deeply relaxed and won’t feel discomfort as work proceeds. Although the treatment might require hours of work, it will feel as if it took only a few minutes.

What Are the Benefits?

The primary appeal of sedation dentistry is a smooth and pain-free appointment, but it offers other advantages. For example, conscious sedation can suppress highly-sensitive gag reflexes. It also will make it easier for people who require substantial dental work to combine several procedures into one appointment.  

What Else Should I Know?

Although conscious sedation lets you remain awake, it will affect your alertness significantly. You won’t be able to drive or work for a day after your procedure, so arrange for a friend or family member to transport you home and supervise your recovery.

Every patient has different concerns, and Dr. Michael L. Kinsley, D.M.D., will customize a level of conscious sedation to your needs. In addition to sedation dentistry, this Perry, GA, clinic provides comfortable care in a tranquil environment with state-of-the-art technology. Whether you want teeth whitening or require emergency dental care, they will improve the way you view appointments. Visit them online for more information about their services and call (478) 987-1441 to schedule an exam. Check their Facebook page to stay up to date with news from the practice.