Tucson AZ Sedation Dentist

Imagine undergoing a complex procedure like periodontal surgery, extractions, or placement of dental implants. When treatment is complete, most patients have little or no recollection of the time it took, the noise, and most people don’t even remember the dental injections. We are pleased to offer our patients the option of comfortable, safe, and effective conscious sedation.

What is Conscious Sedation?

Conscious sedation allows Dr. Harvey to provide a variety of dental treatments safely and comfortably for patients who experience even mild anxiety when visiting the dentist. There are several benefits to sedation dentistry, including the likelihood of having:

• No memory of undergoing the procedure
• No sense of time while under sedation
• No sense of smell or sound
• No fear or anxiety during treatment

Conscious sedation involves starting an IV, then 'titrating' the sedative medication to the point that you become relaxed. Titrating of the sedative means that we add a little medication at a time, using just enough so that you are relaxed. Patients who have undergone a procedure using conscious sedation will tell you it is a simple, relaxing way to experience dentistry.

I am nervous about sedation. What else should I know?

There is no need to be nervous about having conscious sedation at our practice. Dr. Harvey is certified by the Arizona Board of Dental Examiners (BODEX) to provide conscious sedation in our office. In fact, Dr. Harvey serves as an examiner for BODEX certifying other offices and also serves on the BODEX Committee on Sedation and Anesthesia.

According to Dr. Harvey: "I find that essentially 100% of my patients benefit from having sedation for surgical procedures, as just about everyone is at least a little nervous about having dental surgery. All patients are continuously monitored during sedation, and we always see a reduction in blood pressure following administration of the sedative. This happens even though the sedative has no direct effect on the heart or blood pressure, and it works by reducing the patient's release of adrenaline brought on by the anxiety of anticipating the surgery. Taking the stress allows the blood pressure to normalize. There is no doubt that surgery with conscious sedation is SAFER than surgery with local anesthesia alone."

We are also happy to provide oral sedation, using pills such as Xanax or Valium. Oral sedation is effective for non-surgical treatments for anxious patients, and also can be taken at home prior to a surgery during which you will have conscious sedation, so that you can walk into the office more relaxed.

Please contact our practice to schedule a consultation and be sure to ask about conscious sedation.

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