Main Line Sedation Dentistry: Overcoming Dental Phobia

Are you scared of going to the dentist? Have dentists had trouble treating you in the past, or have you gone through a traumatic experience while undergoing dental treatment? Sedation dentistry from Dr. Thomas DeFinnis can help you overcome your fear and receive the dental care that you need.

Types of Sedation Dentistry and How They Can Help You

At Wynnewood Dental Arts, we offer a variety of dental sedation options to meet your needs. Whether you fear the dentist or have trouble sitting still in a dental chair, we can provide the help that you need.

1. Nitrous Oxide: Often called “laughing gas,” this form of sedation calms your anxiety and allows you to stay conscious and respond to Dr. DeFinnis during your treatment. He administers the nitrous oxide with a mixture of oxygen. Once your dental treatment is complete, he will administer oxygen for five or 10 minutes to flush any remaining gas and its effects will wear off almost instantly. This treatment can be very effective in patients with mild or moderate dental anxiety.
2. Oral Conscious Sedation: Dr. DeFinnis will give you an oral sedative to take about an hour before your appointment. You will need a trusted adult to drive you to and from your appointment. As with nitrous oxide, you will remain conscious during your treatment, but you will be completely relaxed and won’t have much recollection of your procedure, and multiple procedures can be performed in one visit. This treatment can be effective for mild or moderate dental anxiety.
3. IV Sedation: If your dental anxiety is more severe, IV sedation can be an effective treatment option. As with oral conscious sedation, multiple procedures can be performed in one visit with this form of sedation, but IV sedation provides deeper relaxation. This form of sedation requires certification and is safest when a trained anesthesiologist administers it. Dr. DeFinnis keeps an anesthesiologist on staff and he will monitor your breathing and safety throughout your treatment.

Don’t let your dental phobia keep you from seeking the treatment that you need. Dr. DeFinnis has 14 years of experience in sedation dentistry, and he can help you.Your dental health is important, and he will gently treat your dental issues in a calming, relaxed environment. Call our Wynnewood, PA, dental practice today at 610-642-0139.