Oklahoma City Sedation Dentistry

Experience Peace of Mind at Grand Dental Nichols Hills

Did you know that as many as 25 million Americans avoid dental visits because of fear or anxiety? Whether you're wary of the unknown or have had negative experiences visiting a dentist, dental fear can be crippling, keeping you from experiencing the oral and overall health you deserve.

You know oral health is important, so you know you should keep those appointments. But what can you do? The answer may be sedation dentistry, a service Dr. Michael K. Kirk and Dr. Janice Ralls Henry provide at our Oklahoma City dental practice.

What is sedation dentistry?

Localized anesthesia injections prevent you from experiencing pain in the area you're having work done. But if you're especially nervous about your visit, we may need to address your concerns with targeted anti-anxiety medications. Dr. Kirk and Dr. Henry provide several options for patients of Grand Dental Nichols Hills, such as administering a sedative in pill form or by nitrous oxide inhalation. A certified anesthesiologist will be present if sedation is administered intravenously (IV sedation).

Our dentists can recommend the best sedation option after learning about your needs and concerns. While you're relaxed and comfortable, we'll perform the dental procedures you need. Don't think it's possible to be so carefree during a visit to the dentist? You will be surprised! Many people report having little or no memory of the procedure the following day.

Why should I choose sedation dentistry?

If you're one of the many people who put off regular dental care because of fear, sedation could be the key to achieving and maintaining good oral health. Imagine experiencing an office visit that is peaceful and calm, without the sweaty palms and butterflies that accompany dental angst.

Even if you're not nervous about dental procedures, you could still benefit from sedation if you:

• need to condense extensive dental work into as few visits as possible
• have a sensitive gag reflex
• can't seem to get comfortable in the dental chair

What types of sedation do you offer?

• Oral sedation consists of a pill prescribed for you by your dentist.
• Nitrous oxide sedation involves inhaling "laughing gas" through a facemask.
• Oral conscious sedation is a combination of oral sedation and nitrous oxide.
• IV sedation is sedative medication administered intravenously by a certified anesthesiologist.

Is sedation safe?

Yes. The medications you will receive are used routinely and have an excellent safety record. Dr. Kirk and Dr. Henry are experienced at administering oral conscious sedation, and a certified anesthesiologist always performs our IV sedation cases, so you can be sure your care is taken seriously. At Grand Dental Nichols Hills, rest assured that you are in good hands.

If you're ready to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kirk or Dr. Henry, call our Oklahoma City dental office at 405-848-3719. We serve patients from many cities in the greater Oklahoma City area and beyond with gentle dental care.