“What is sedation dentistry?”

Sedation dentistry is like any other dental treatment, with one exception: medications are used to help patients control their fears and anxieties. Our goal in sedation is to create a relaxed, comfortable environment where you will experience no anxiety and little memory of the appointment. Sedated patients are so comfortable and stress free, they frequently fall asleep while having their work done.

You would be sedated if you needed a procedure in a hospital. 

Why shouldn’t you be sedated for a dental procedure, too?

“Is it for everyone?”

We’ve  sedated all types of patients in our office. There are few age or health limits to sedation dentistry and we routinely sedate patients as young as five and over 80.  Sedation dentistry is perfect for the patient who avoids the dentist out of excessive fear and anxiety. It’s also for the patient who is too busy for several appointments and wants to get all the work done in one convenient visit. Sedated patients frequently tell us that the time flew by while they were in our chair. We’ve also successfully treated patients under sedation who couldn’t have routine dental care because they gagged easily.  They were very pleased with the result.

”Is it safe?”

Dental sedation is very safe.  Research shows that this approach has the lowest incidence of adverse reactions.  We utilize the best technique to fit your needs.  For example, if you have a fear of needles, we can use pills or syrups.  These medications are easy to take and do not cause adverse side effects.

We also take all the necessary precautions when we perform a sedation procedure. We use standard medications and stay well within safety guidelines for dosage.  We keep the reversal medications on hand during the procedure. We monitor your breathing, your pulse, your EKG and your blood pressure with our modern equipment.  Dr. Moilanen’s had extensive training in sedation and maintains current certifications in Basic and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support.

“How long does it last?”

Sedation times vary with the medications and technique used. On the average, our sedation appointments last two to three hours.   Many of our patients rest comfortably after they’re home.  Of course, we recommend you take a day off from work to allow the medications to clear your system completely.

“What special training do you have?”

Dr. Moilanen has been sedating patients for over 20 years. In 2004, he completed an intensive program on pain and anxiety control at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio.  He is certified by the hospital in oral and IV sedation, and has additional training in advanced local anesthesia techniques and patient monitoring.  He also provides IV sedation for other dentists in their offices.

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