Are you one of the millions of Americans who avoid dental work every year because of dental anxiety? Dr. Whitmore understands and sympathizes with dental fear, so he will make sure that you are completely at ease before he begins any procedure.
Dr. Whitmore will discuss anesthesia options with you prior to your dental work. Some patients find all the pain relief they need with local anesthetic and nitrous oxide gas. Other anxious patients prefer oral conscious sedation, sometimes known as sleep dentistry or sedation dentistry. To achieve this, Dr. Whitmore uses an oral medication combined with nitrous oxide gas. The amount required is adjusted for the needs of each patient. You take a pill before the appointment, and after it takes effect, you have your dental work done. For additional sedation during the appointment, nitrous oxide is used. Since it is a gas, it can be adjusted moment by moment to achieve the exact level of sedation desired. Many anxious patients relax so much during sleep dentistry that they catch a little catnap during their procedure. A certified sedation dentist, Dr. Whitmore can explain your options when you visit.
The state of conscious sedation is one in which you are not unconscious —so your protective reflexes are fully operative. Thus, it is very safe. It does require some cooperation on your part, though. If you are determined enough, you can fight off the sedative effect. But if you "let yourself go," you will ordinarily remember little or nothing about the appointment and everything will go smoothly.
Another advantage of sleep dentistry is that a lot of dental work can be accomplished in a single visit.
After your appointment, you will need to have someone take you home after the appointment because you won't able to drive or operate dangerous machinery for a period of time afterward.
