For many individuals, the thought of visiting the dentist brings feelings of apprehension, discomfort, or even fear. This anxiety can prevent them from seeking necessary dental care, which can lead to long-term oral health issues. At McOmber Dental, we understand these challenges and are committed to making every visit as comfortable as possible. Our sedation dentistry services provide a safe, effective solution to help patients relax and receive the care they need without fear or stress.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right for You?
If you’re considering sedation dentistry, ask yourself:
- Do you feel anxious at the thought of a dental appointment?
- Have you postponed or avoided dental care due to fear?
- Do you need extensive dental work or have difficulty sitting for long periods?
For patients who answer “yes” to these questions, sedation can make a world of difference in easing anxiety and providing a positive dental experience.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during procedures. It’s commonly recommended for those who experience dental anxiety, have difficulty getting numb, or need extensive dental work. Sedation can be mild, allowing patients to stay awake but relaxed, or it can be deeper, leaving patients unaware of the procedure until it’s over.
Oral Sedation
With oral sedation, you take a pill about an hour before your appointment to help you feel calm and relaxed. Upon arrival to your appointment, you will be assessed by Dr. McOmber and her staff. An additional dose is usually administered under the tongue for quick absorption. You are given time to relax with a blanket and pillow. Once you are completely relaxed, dental treatment will begin. It’s a great option if you’re nervous about the dentist because the medication keeps you awake but takes away the stress and anxiety associated with treatment.
IV Sedation
At McOmber Dental, we are very fortunate to provide intravenous (IV) sedation with a licensed anesthesiologist, Dr. Nguyen, who has many years of experience sedating dental patients in a private practice setting. This is the type of sedation you would receive for outpatient procedures like a colonoscopy. You will be fully asleep during your dental treatment with no memory of the procedure. IV sedation allows medications to go straight into your bloodstream for a fast-acting effect. It’s perfect for patients who are exceptionally anxious or need invasive and lengthy procedures. IV sedation is also commonly used by our special needs patients who are not able to withstand traditional dental care.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, when administered by trained professionals, sedation dentistry is very safe. Dr. McOmber has had specialized training and holds a New Jersey State Enteral Sedation Permit. She was the 33rd dentist in the entire state to get this permit in 2005. Dr. McOmber is certified in the American Heart Association’s Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. The patient’s vital signs—such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure- are continuously monitored during oral sedation sessions. Before recommending sedation, Dr. McOmber will evaluate each patient’s health history to determine the safest option. If necessary, a medical clearance will be obtained from a patient’s internist prior to sedation treatment.
Dr. Nguyen, our in-office, board-certified anesthesiologist, served as an attending anesthesiologist at Red Bank’s Riverview Medical Center and clinical director at Rutgers School of Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology. Dr. Nguyen carefully monitors patients to ensure their comfort and safety during IV sedation dentistry procedures.
Why Choose McOmber Dental?
Dr. McOmber is one of the few dentists in New Jersey to earn their State Oral Conscious Sedation permit. Trained in the Anesthesia Department at Monmouth Medical Center, she has successfully treated hundreds of patients with sedation. She stays up-to-date on the latest advancements and goes above and beyond the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry’s requirements for continuing education. Additionally, our entire team is certified in Basic Life Support, and our office is fully equipped with an emergency kit and an Automated External Defibrillator, so you can rest easy knowing you are in good hands.
Enjoy Worry-Free Dentist Visits Today
Please call our office for a complimentary dentistry consultation with Dr. McOmber. She will explain the entire sedation process, review your medical history, and discuss your dental concerns. You will also have a chance to meet our staff and tour our treatment rooms. Contact us today to learn more!