Request Request an Appointment Forms Download Patient Forms Like Us Like Us on Facebook Reviews Review us on Google Call Map
IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTICE REGARDING COVID-19

Sedation Dentistry – Castle Rock, WA

Changing the Way You Visit the Dentist

Patient seeking sedation dentistry in Castle Rock, WA

Because we offer such a wide variety of complex restorative dental care treatments, we understand the effects that dental anxiety can have on a smile. People who experience extreme dental anxiety may go for years without visiting a dentist. Of course, the Cowlitz River Dental team would prefer that you come to see us regularly to avoid advanced oral health problems. That’s why Dr. Kennington proudly offers three different types of sedation dentistry in Castle Rock, WA: nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Contact us today to learn if you are eligible to receive sedation during your next visit.

Nitrous Oxide

Patient receiving nitrous oxide in Castle Rock

Nitrous oxide is commonly used to help patients with mild dental anxiety achieve relaxation during a dental appointment. Administered via a mask that is worn over the nose, you will be instructed to inhale the mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Within minutes, you will begin to feel almost lightheaded and fully relaxed. A warm sensation is possible while some report feeling as if they are floating. Nitrous oxide does not fully sedate you but instead, helps to calm nerves and allows you to remain cognizant enough to respond to cues by Dr. Kennington and his dental team.

One of the great benefits of nitrous oxide is that it quickly dissipates once the gas is turned off. This means you can resume normal activity immediately following your appointment.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Person receiving oral conscious sedation in Castle Rock

Oral sedation is a moderate form of sedation that may be the right choice for patients who cannot feel truly comfortable when receiving only nitrous oxide. Our team will prescribe anti-anxiety medication and give you detailed instructions on when to take it before your appointment’s scheduled time. Once the effects begin, you should remain awake but feel deeply relaxed and at ease. You may not even remember any details about the visit once you have returned home and recovered from the sedative effects.

If you plan to undergo oral sedation, you will need a trusted friend or family member to escort you to and from our Castle Rock, WA location. They will need to observe you afterward until the sedative wears off. This type of sedation may be a good option for patients who are needing several dental procedures and would like to receive them all in one visit for added convenience.

IV Sedation

Patient under IV sedation in Castle Rock

IV sedation is even more effective than oral sedation and is a good option for patients with moderate to severe dental-related anxiety. Instead of receiving oral medication, the sedative process will not begin until you arrive at the practice and are comfortably seated in the treatment chair. Our team will then insert the IV and start administering medication directly into the bloodstream. Our team will closely monitor you throughout the process, and the dosage can be easily adjusted at any time if needed.

IV sedation allows patients to stay awake throughout treatment while also entering a deep state of relaxation. The effect is strong enough that you may realize that you don’t actually remember anything about the experience following treatment. As with oral sedation, you will need to arrange for an escort following your procedure, as you will not be capable of transporting yourself home.

Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Woman smiling after dental visit in Castle Rock

It is necessary that any patient interested in sedation dentistry be in good general overall health. Otherwise, if you experience any of the following, your sedation dentist in Castle Rock, WA will be happy to discuss your available options:

  • Mild, moderate, or extreme dental anxiety
  • Sensitive gag reflex
  • Fear of needles
  • Past trauma at another dental office
  • Multiple or complex dental treatments completed during one visit
  • Inability to sit still for extended periods because of a physical disability