If you struggle with dental anxiety, you probably avoid visiting the dentist. When you avoid routine dental exams, it can impact your health and lead to complex dental concerns. Many patients feel fear or anxiety around dentist office visits, but few seek help with this common issue. Sedation dentistry in our Rogers, AR, office is the answer.

Dental sedation ensures painless and comfortable dental treatment. We use this dental tool to help you feel relaxed in the dental chair.

Why Do Some Dental Patients Need Sedation?

Sedation can help patients who have anxiety about their next general dental procedure. Dr. Heather Adams understands this fear. She has built her dental practice around the basic principles of compassion and kindness. Dr. Adams provides patient-first dentistry in a welcoming and no-pressure environment.

At our Rogers AR dental office, every patient receives personalized attention and a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Adams. Dr. Adams takes the time to listen to her patients. She’ll work with you to create a customized treatment plan.

We know that patients may avoid the dentist because of negative past experiences. Some patients may also fear loud noises, dental tools, or pain. But if you avoid the dentist, dental problems can worsen over time. If you don’t get treatment for a dental problem, you may need more expensive and complex care. Without regular visits, you are at a greater risk of a gum or tooth infection.

We welcome you to contact our office so we can help you. If you have dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help. Our treatment options can help you overcome your dental anxiety and enjoy good oral health and a big, bright, beautiful smile.

What is a Dental Phobia?

If you fear visiting the dentist’s office, you are not alone. Between 9% and 20% of Americans avoid the dentist because of dental anxiety or fear.

Dental phobia is a more serious condition. It leaves people feeling panic-stricken and terrified. People with dental fear know it’s irrational but can’t do much about it.

If you have dental fear, you do everything possible to avoid going to the dentist. You may go to the dentist only when forced to do so by extreme pain. Anxiety or fear may need psychiatric consultation in some cases.

How to Be Comfortable at the Dentist

We offer sedation dentistry to help patients feel relaxed. That way, we can also perform several dental treatments during a single visit.

Our office will also ensure you feel comfortable when you visit our office. We can provide an office tour before your scheduled appointment. During this tour, you can meet our office staff and dentists. An office tour is a great way to familiarize yourself with our office.

We also recommend that you bring earphones and music to your appointment to help distract you during treatment. If loud noises are a concern, we welcome you to bring noise-cancelling headphones.

If you have avoided the dentist for some time, schedule an appointment with Dr. Adams. She will help restore your dental health without judgment.

“I am a self-proclaimed, world-class wimp on all things dental related. I had horrible experiences as a child. Couple that with off-the-charts anxiety, and it’s easy to understand why I avoid the dentist. If Dental Aversion were an Olympic sport – I’d hold all of the world records!

And then comes Dr.Adams and her phenomenal staff! If I gushed with all of the sincerity I feel, I fear it would seem disingenuous. From the first phone call, it’s been a true JOY. Every person I encountered in the office was kind, gentle, and understanding. Did I mention there’s a THERAPY DOG, too?! Dr.Adams patiently explained All The Things to me, and I left the office actually looking forward to my next appointment. I believe I’ve found my Forever Dentist!”

-Rachelle H.

Sedation Dentistry in Rogers, AR

When you visit our office, we want to improve the health and appearance of your smile. If you have dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help us provide the right care for your needs. Dr. Adams takes your comfort and safety seriously. Before she chooses a sedation method, she’ll complete a thorough exam. She’ll also consider your budget, necessary treatments, and personal preference.

Dr. Adams provides two types of sedation in her office:

Nitrous Oxide: We combine nitrous oxide and oxygen for you to breathe through a mask. It takes effect immediately and will wear off quickly when we remove the mask. Under “laughing gas,” you’ll feel happy and relaxed while you remain awake and alert. You can still respond to our instructions under laughing gas.

This sedation is safe for patients of all ages. We’ll provide laughing gas based on age and weight. Our office can also reverse the effects of sedation if needed.

Oral Conscious: We will provide oral conscious sedation as a pill you will take about an hour before treatment. You will remain alert and can communicate with us but can still enjoy total relaxation. You will need a ride to and from your appointment. This is because it takes time for the medication to wear off.

Which Type of Sedation is Right For Me?

Medical conditions and medications can affect your reaction to sedation. For example, we don’t recommend laughing gas for patients with breathing problems. When you’re relaxed, you breathe slower. This may lead to complications in some patients. Patients allergic to anti-anxiety medications are not good candidates for oral sedation.

We’ll ask you to update your information with any current medications. Medication can negatively interact with sedation.

Dr. Heather Adams will discuss your concerns and fears before your treatment. She’ll recommend the right option based on your current medications and the dental treatment you need.

Keeping You Comfortable at Heather Adams Dentistry

At Heather Adams Dentistry, we do dentistry differently. Our hygienists, office staff, and dentist Dr. Adams are here to help you feel safe, cared for, and right at home.

We’ve added thoughtful touches to our office to help you feel more comfortable during your visit. While you wait, you can enjoy a refreshing beverage or a light snack from our refreshment area. If you’re an animal lover, you’ll be happy to meet Pearl, our gentle and friendly therapy dog.

If you love music, we can play calming tunes or your favorite songs to help you relax during your treatment. We also offer cozy comforts like a warm towel, soft pillow, and blanket so you feel relaxed and comfortable in the dental chair.

Explore Our Comfort Menu Here

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

Read answers to these common questions about sedation dentistry in Rogers, AR.

How long does it take to recover from sedation?

If we prescribe anti-anxiety medication for your treatment, it’ll wear off after 24 hours. We recommend that you remain with someone and not drive during this time. The effects of laughing gas will wear off immediately. You won’t need a ride to and from your appointment.

Can I get sedation for a dental cleaning?

Yes, you can request sedation for a routine dental cleaning. If dental visits make you feel nervous or uncomfortable, sedation can help you relax during your appointment. Many patients with dental anxiety choose light sedation so they can feel calm and at ease while their teeth are cleaned.

Dr. Adams will talk with you about your concerns and review your health history before she recommends sedation. Her goal is to help you feel comfortable and confident while you get dental care.

Why do dentists love sedation dentistry?

Patients who have a fear of dentists can be hard to treat. Our dentists want to help you get the proper treatment.

Choosing sedation helps you feel more relaxed. Our dentists can focus on their work and complete more in one appointment. This also means you need fewer visits for you to get the care you need.

Can I use sedation dentistry if I have a strong gag reflex?

Yes. We may recommend sedation if you have a poor gag reflex because this can make treatment uncomfortable and difficult. Many people have strong gag reflexes that can make it uncomfortable to get dental care. Being sedated will help the muscles relax and help us work.

Does insurance cover sedation?

Many dental insurance plans cover sedation if they deem it medically necessary. This would include complex procedures or patients with severe anxiety.

But coverage may be limited or not included if sedation is elective or for comfort during routine care. Since every insurance plan is different, the best way to know what’s covered is to contact your insurance company.

Does nitrous oxide help with dental anxiety?

Yes, nitrous oxide has a calming effect to make you feel relaxed and at ease. The gas you inhale through a mask works quickly to reduce anxiety. Many patients find it effective for mild to moderate dental anxiety.

How safe is oral conscious sedation?

Yes, oral conscious sedation is usually safe when given by a trained dentist. You’ll take medicine before your dental visit to help you feel calm and relaxed.

You’ll stay awake and able to respond during the treatment. Our dentist will watch your vital signs the whole time to make sure you’re safe. Side effects are usually mild, like feeling sleepy or having a small headache. We’ll also check your medical history before we start treatment.

Does sedation have an age limit?

Dental sedation doesn’t have a strict age limit. Milder forms of sedation are safe for children when provided by a trained dentist. These options help kids feel calm and comfortable during their visit while staying awake and able to respond. The type and amount of sedation are always based on a child’s age, weight, and overall health.

For seniors, we take extra care before recommending sedation. Dr. Adams carefully reviews medical history, current medications, and any health conditions to make sure sedation is safe. She won’t recommend laughing gas for patients with breathing problems or sleep apnea.

Get Comfortable Dental Care Today

Pain-free dental treatment is possible. Call our office for sedation dentistry in Rogers, AR, at (479) 323-3011. Feel free to schedule a dental appointment on our website.

Please let us know if you have any more questions or need to treat your dental anxiety. We’re here to help.