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Sedation Dentistry in Zachary, LA

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Fallin Family Dentistry offers sedation dentistry services in Zachary, LA, including nitrous oxide and conscious oral sedation. To schedule an appointment, please call our office at 225-654-2212.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry helps patients apprehensive about their procedures feel calm. Dr. Fallin administers safe medication to help the patient relax.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

  • Helps nervous patients feel better about getting dental work
  • Allows patients with anxiety and phobias to keep up with their recommended schedule for dental cleanings and more extensive work, leading to better oral health
  • Helps long appointments go by quickly
  • Helps to increase patient comfort, relieving strong gag reflexes and highly sensitive teeth
  • Allows the dentist to work faster and get more done in one appointment

Sedation Options We Offer

We offer light to moderate sedation using either nitrous oxide or oral medications:

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is a gas that displaces some of the oxygen in the lungs. It causes a mild state of oxygen deprivation in the body and brain. Patients may feel calm or euphoric, leading to the common name "laughing gas."

The dentist uses a small mask over your nose to administer the medication. The sedating effect takes hold as you breathe the gas in, and the dentist can easily complete the procedure. As the appointment ends, the dentist turns down the gas and increases the oxygen flow to clear the gas from your system. Within a few minutes, you will be ready to resume your daily activities, including work, school, and driving.

Are You A Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

While sedation dentistry is safe for most patients, those with certain medical conditions should consult their primary care physician and Dr. Fallin before proceeding:

  • Pregnancy
  • Nasal congestion
  • Very young or elderly patients
  • Medication allergies
  • Alcohol use
  • Chronic respiratory disease or bronchitis
  • Sleep apnea
  • Asthma

Why Choose Fallin Family Dentistry?

We understand that not everyone has the same level of tolerance for dental work, so we take special care of patients who feel nervous about visiting our office.

We provide a comprehensive range of dental services under one roof. Our modern facility combines comfort and high-tech equipment for your convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

What are the reasons to consider sedation dentistry?

People with the following characteristics may find sedation dentistry useful:

  • Apprehension about the dentist
  • Strong gag reflex
  • Very sensitive teeth
  • Needing extensive dental work

Even if you are not afraid to visit the dentist, you may benefit from sedation. Dentists can get more done in one appointment with a relaxed patient. You may need fewer appointments.

Why can I drive so soon after nitrous oxide sedation and not after conscious oral sedation?
Nitrous oxide and conscious oral sedation medications work differently. Nitrous oxide works by suppressing oxygen in your blood, and when the dentist stops the gas, you recover quickly to your normal state. Oral medications stay in your bloodstream for a longer period.
Can you eat or drink before a sedation appointment?
Generally, dentists ask that patients avoid eating or drinking on the day of their appointment to reduce the risk of nausea. You can take regular prescription medications with a small amount of water.
Are there any special concerns with children and sedation dentistry?
Most children can safely receive nitrous oxide. It can help them feel less nervous about their appointment and help them sit still during the procedure. Children may chew the inside of their lips, teeth, and tongue if they receive local anesthesia in addition to sedation. Parents should supervise their children carefully until the sedation wears off.
Why should people with sleep apnea avoid dental sedation?
Dental sedation patients need to have healthy airways. Sleep apnea makes breathing slower and could contribute to hypoxia, or a lack of oxygen in the brain.
Looking for a practice in the East Baton Rouge Parish area? Contact us at 225-654-2212 to schedule an appointment today!

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

Fallin Family Dentistry
1338 Church St
Zachary, LA 70791
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