SEDATION AND DENTAL ANXIETY
A calmer way to get the care you need.
Talk with Dr. Kyger about dental sedation in Washington Park.
If anxiety has been keeping you from the dentist, tell us before your visit. We can discuss your concerns, explain what to expect, and help you find out whether sedation is appropriate for your care.
A difficult past experience, a sensitive gag reflex, or a longer procedure can make a dental appointment feel like a lot. Let the team know what worries you so those concerns can be part of the treatment discussion.
Sedation helps manage anxiety and awareness. Local anesthetic numbs the area being treated. They do different jobs, and the appropriate combination depends on your procedure and health.
YOUR OPTIONS
Not every patient needs the same approach.
Ask which option is available and suitable for your procedure. Your health history, medications, allergies, and level of anxiety help guide the recommendation.
Nitrous oxide
Often called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and breathed through a small mask over the nose. It can help you relax, and its effects wear off quickly after it is stopped.
Conscious oral sedation
Oral sedation can help you feel more relaxed while remaining awake. Local anesthetic may also be used for the treatment. Arrange for someone to bring you and drive you home.
When deeper sedation is being considered
Some procedures or patient needs may call for a discussion of deeper sedation or general anesthesia. These are not the same thing. Ask Dr. Kyger which approach, provider, and care setting would be appropriate before scheduling.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
A little planning matters.
Share your current medications, allergies, medical conditions, and any previous problems with anesthesia or sedation. Ask questions before agreeing to a sedation plan.
Get instructions for your specific plan.
Follow the team’s directions about eating, drinking, medications, transportation, and recovery. Do not assume the same instructions apply to every type of sedation.
Plan your ride in advance.
If oral sedation is planned, arrange a ride to and from the appointment. For any other sedation method, confirm the escort requirements and when driving is permitted.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions about feeling comfortable.
Not necessarily. Conscious oral sedation is intended to help you relax while staying awake. General anesthesia causes loss of consciousness. Ask exactly which approach is being considered and what to expect from it.
No. Local anesthetic numbs the area being treated, while sedation helps manage anxiety and awareness. Your dentist will explain which medicines are appropriate for the procedure.
For oral sedation, arrange for someone to bring you and take you home. For other methods, follow the office’s specific instructions and confirm transportation requirements before your appointment.
Suitability depends on your health, medications, allergies, procedure, and other individual factors. Tell the team about your medical history so the dentist can assess the options.
Tell us that too. Start by discussing the parts of a dental visit that make you uncomfortable. Ask how the appointment can be explained and planned around your concerns.
Ask for an estimate based on the method and treatment plan recommended for you. Coverage varies, so confirm insurance benefits rather than assuming sedation is included.
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
Find the care that fits.
Compare related care or get in touch to discuss your options.
WASH PARK FAMILY DENTAL
Let's talk before your next visit.
Let us know what has made dental care difficult. We’ll start with your questions and discuss a plan for moving forward.
271 S Downing St., Denver, CO 80209
