Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. Sedation is widely used and considered safe when delivered by trained professionals. We review your health history, discuss medications, and monitor your vital signs throughout your visit.
If dental visits make you nervous, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. At Ohana Dental, we offer safe, effective sedation options to help you relax so you can get the care you need without stress. Call now to schedule a comfortable visit at one of our three locations: Kahala at , Kahului at , or Waipahu at .
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you feel calm and comfortable during dental treatment. Depending on your needs, sedation can take the edge off mild anxiety or make longer procedures feel easy to handle. You’ll still receive local anesthesia to keep you pain-free in the treatment area. Most patients remain awake and responsive, but deeply relaxed, and often remember little of the appointment.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
- Eases anxiety and fear: If dental visits make your heart race or your palms sweat, sedation helps lower stress so you can sit comfortably and confidently.
- Increases comfort for longer visits: Sedation helps you stay relaxed during complex or multi-step procedures, making time pass more quickly.
- Reduces gag reflex and sensitivity: A calm, controlled state can lessen a strong gag reflex and tooth sensitivity, improving your experience.
- Supports efficient, fewer visits: With you relaxed and still, we can often complete more treatment in one appointment, saving you time.
- Encourages routine care: When anxiety is under control, it’s easier to keep up with cleanings and exams—key for long-term oral health.
- Safe and monitored: Your vitals are monitored throughout your visit, and our trained team adjusts care to match your comfort.
Why Choose Ohana Dental?
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- Experienced, compassionate team: Our doctors and staff are trained in sedation protocols and known for being friendly, honest, and non-judgmental. We listen first, then tailor care to you.
- Personalized comfort plans: Every patient is different. We review your health history, anxiety level, and treatment goals to recommend the safest, most effective option.
- Comprehensive, modern care: With digital X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging, we diagnose precisely and plan efficiently, so your sedated visit is smooth from start to finish.
- Accessible locations: Serving you locally in three convenient locations, choose the office closest to you at Kahala, Kahului, or Waipahu.
Ready for comfortable dental care? Call your nearest Ohana Dental location to book an appointment or request a consultation online: Kahala at , Kahului at , or Waipahu at .
Types of Sedation We Offer
- Nitrous Oxide (only at Kahala location): Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a mild inhaled sedative delivered through a small nose mask. You’ll feel relaxed within minutes, stay awake and responsive, and recover quickly—most patients can drive themselves home.
- Conscious Oral Sedation: Taken as a prescribed pill before your visit, oral sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation. You’ll likely feel drowsy, calm, and less aware of time, but you’ll remain responsive. Because effects can linger, you’ll need a trusted adult to drive you to and from your appointment.
Are You a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
You may be a great candidate if you’re bothered by tooth color, shape, small gaps, or minor alignment issues and you have healthy gums and teeth. If you’re managing decay or gum disease, we’ll treat those first, then plan cosmetic care. We customize every plan, so even if you’re not sure what you need, we’ll help you choose options that fit your smile goals and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
Sedation helps you relax, and we also use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Most patients report feeling pressure but no pain.
How long does the sedation last?
Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes after the mask is removed. Oral sedation can last several hours, so plan for a ride home and a restful day.
Can I drive after sedation?
You can drive after nitrous oxide once you feel normal again. For oral sedation, you must have a trusted adult drive you to and from your appointment.
What does sedation feel like?
Most patients describe feeling calm, light, and unbothered by sounds or sensations. With oral sedation, you may feel drowsy and remember less of the visit.
Who should avoid sedation?
Certain medical conditions, pregnancy, or medication interactions may limit options. We’ll conduct a thorough review to determine if sedation is appropriate and which type is best.
Will insurance cover sedation?
Coverage varies. Some plans cover sedation for specific procedures or medical needs. Our team can check your benefits and provide an estimate before treatment.
Do I need to fast before oral sedation?
We’ll provide clear pre-appointment instructions. Often, a short fasting window is recommended for oral sedation to ensure safety and comfort.
