Sedation Dentistry in Shrewsbury, PA

Treat Dental Anxiety With Dr. Haywood

Many patients have had traumatic experiences in dentistry or have other fears about their treatment, preventing them from getting the care they need. This can result in serious consequences, like gum disease, tooth decay, or even tooth and bone loss.

At Southern York Smile Care in Shrewsbury, your comfort is our priority. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry to meet your individual comfort needs and make your visit stress-free. Best of all, you’ll leave our office with a smile that you can’t get anywhere else.

Reasons for Sedation Dentistry

Dr. Haywood and our Shrewsbury team will do everything we can to ensure that you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout your visit. Sedation dentistry is useful for patients with:

• Dental anxiety or phobias
• Previous negative dental experiences
• Low pain tolerance
• Bad gag reflex
• Receiving an extensive procedure
• Sensitive oral nerves
• Fear of dental tools or equipment

Our Safe Sedation Methods

With sedation, Dr. Haywood can work more effectively by creating a safe and comfortable experience for patients with dental anxiety or fear. Our practice offers two methods of sedation, general anesthesia and oral conscious sedation depending on your individual needs.

Oral Conscious Sedation

We’ll provide you with a small pill to take an hour prior to your scheduled appointment. This form of sedation will help patients with moderate to severe anxiety, allowing you to feel completely relaxed and at ease. Though you’ll be awake for the procedure, you’ll likely forget most of your visit and require someone to drive you home afterwards.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is a great option for patients who have failed oral conscious sedation or have extensive treatment needs. During anesthesia, you’ll be given IV medication to assist in falling into a deep state of sleep.

Dr. Haywood works with a well-established, experienced anesthesiologist to assist patients throughout their procedure. We’ll be constantly monitoring your progress, making any corrections or handling any concerns that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I benefit from dental sedation?

Dr. Haywood recommends sedation so that patients with dental anxiety and fear can receive the essential care they need and deserve. Common signs that you may benefit from sedation dentistry include:

• Being tense before an appointment
• Feeling anxious, nervous as you’re waiting
• Becoming scared at the sight of dental instruments
• Trouble breathing or feeling panicked in the office

How long will I be sedated?

Dental sedation can last anywhere from two to six hours, depending on several important factors. This can include the type used, strength of sedation, and length of your procedure. At your consultation, Dr. Haywood will determine the best sedation method for you and explain any necessary information prior to your procedure.

Will I be monitored?

Yes! You will be closely monitored throughout your procedure regardless of which sedation method is used. Our Shrewsbury staff, including an experienced anesthesiologist, will monitor your vitals to ensure they remain at a normal, healthy level. From the moment you walk into our office, we’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure you have a comfortable experience.

Are there any long-term effects of sedation?

No, there are no long-term effects of sedation. It’s likely you’ll feel groggy and dazed after your procedure when using either sedation methods. This should subside within a few hours, but we strongly recommend planning a designated driver to take you home after your procedure.

Visit Southern York Smile Care Today

Your comfort and safety is our utmost priority, which is why we’ll go the extra mile to ensure you feel completely relaxed throughout your visit. 

To learn more about sedation dentistry, give us a call at (717) 235-3871 or fill out a convenient contact form located to the right. We look forward to meeting you and building the beautiful, healthy smile you have always wanted.