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Sedation Dentistry

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What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a technique that uses medication to minimize discomfort and help patients relax during dental work. The exact effects of sedation dentistry depend on the level of sedation administered to the patient. With mild sedative options, patients remain awake and alert but are much more relaxed than they normally would be. Moderate levels of sedation allow patients to relax even further by producing a twilight sleep. In this state, patients can still respond to questions from the doctor but will have little memory of the procedure.

The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Though dental procedures may seem intimidating, they help you avoid the complications of untreated dental issues. Our dentists serving the Lake Charles area are skilled at providing gentle dentistry that alleviates pain, expertly addresses dental problems, and prevents widespread damage and decay. And with our sedation dentistry, we can make your dental care relaxing and comfortable.

Anxiety-Free Dentistry

With the help of nitrous oxide or oral sedation, patients can experience worry-free dental procedures. These sedation techniques allow patients to achieve a state of relaxation.

Better Oral Health

Once you've received comfortable dental care, you can rest assured that your teeth and gums will be in better condition. Routine check-ups with the dentist can also help prevent serious problems from developing.

Comfortable Dental Care

Patients typically experience dental anxiety if they think their procedure will be painful or lengthy. Dental procedures can pass by quickly and comfortably with sedation dentistry.

Receive Comfortable & Relaxing Dental Care

Request a Consultation

Dental anxiety is a common concern that affects many people. Our dentists can help you overcome that obstacle with sedation dentistry. We offer both nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help put you at ease during your dental appointments or throughout extensive procedures.

If you could benefit from sedation dentistry, we invite you to request a dental appointment with one of our offices in Lake Charles, Carlyss, or Moss Bluff, LA. You can fill out our contact form or call us:

(337) 221-9338
Request A Consulation
With multiple convenient locations, Lake Area Dentistry is bound to have a practice nearby for residents in the Lake Charles area.

Sedation Options

Available at Our Lake Charles Practices

We strive to help patients enjoy a lifetime of healthy and beautiful smiles. If you suffer from anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist, we can use one of two sedation methods during your appointment.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation uses a prescription medication that is taken before a dental procedure. The effects of oral sedation can range from mild to moderate, depending on the dosage. With a single pill, patients usually feel drowsy but remain awake. Larger doses are more common, though, and typically leave patients in a twilight sleep state.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is one of the mildest forms of sedation available. Administered through a nose mask, the effects of nitrous oxide can be felt immediately and diminish quickly. Because it is so light, it is often recommended for children who are especially nervous or uncooperative at the dentist’s office. We offer complimentary nitrous oxide to help patients achieve optimal comfort during their procedures.

Receive Comfortable & Relaxing Dental Care

Lake Area Dentistry provides sedation as one of many options to ease a patient’s anxiety so that it does not interfere with their oral health. Sedation is particularly helpful for patients who:

  • Have a low pain threshold
  • Have sensitive teeth
  • Have a sensitive gag reflex
  • Have trouble sitting still for long periods
  • Require extensive dental work
  • Are uncomfortable with a stranger’s closeness
Sedation is not the only available option to ease discomfort. Simply asking your dentist to thoroughly explain your treatment can make a difference in helping you feel comfortable. You can also agree on hand signals before treatment to let your doctor know if you need a break.

How Is Sedation Different From General Anesthesia?

Sedation dentistry is not the same as general anesthesia. Patients who receive sedation during their procedure won’t be completely unconscious but will be in a state of deep relaxation. Patients will still be able to communicate with their dentist, but won’t feel their anxiety. With general anesthesia patients have a complete loss of consciousness. They are unaware of their surroundings and are unable to respond.

Are You Concerned About Costs?

We don’t think costs should get in the way of needed dental care. Our practice offers flexible financing through CareCredit® and we have our own dental membership plan that offers discounts on dental procedures. Contact us to learn more.

Our Dental Membership Plan

Preparing for the Sedation Process

Attend a Consultation

Before your dental work, you'll have to undergo a consultation with one of our Lake Charles, LA, dentists where you can discuss your concerns, required dental work, and medical history. Our dentist can then decide which form of sedation will be best for you.

Arrange Transportation

Patients who receive oral sedation will have to arrange for transportation to and from their appointment as it is unsafe for them to drive until the effects of their medication completely wear off.

Follow Preparatory Instructions

Depending on the type of sedation that will be used, you may receive pre-visit instructions from your dentist. These instructions may include avoiding certain medications and restricting eating and drinking two to three hours before sedation to help prevent nausea after treatment.

The Importance of Sedation Dentistry

In Maintaining Good Oral Health

According to researchers, anywhere between 50 and 80% of Americans have some degree of dental anxiety. Unfortunately, this anxiety can cause patients to put off exams and procedures that can prevent serious dental concerns. For example, periodontal disease has no obvious symptoms until later stages, at which point extensive treatment is required. Receiving comfortable dental care with sedation techniques allows patients to get the care they need to maintain their oral health.

The Risks of Sedation

Though sedation dentistry has many benefits, some people may be more at risk for developing complications with sedation. These people include patients who:
  • Are overweight
  • Suffer from obstructive sleep apnea
  • Are pregnant
If you are considering sedation, our Lake Charles, LA, dentists will carefully review your overall health to ensure sedation is safe for you. During your consultation, you can discuss your medical history and current conditions with your dentist so they can determine the best option for you.

"Love this place and will continue to go there!"

Our Dentists Make Your Comfort Their Priority

  • I absolutely loved my dental hygienist! She was so friendly and professional yet personable! And I loved Dr. Hennigan! He’s very nice and provides great detail and the front office... Read More

    Shanyetta Hypolite Avatar Shanyetta Hypolite

    Great staff ! Very welcoming, professional and knowledgeable. Top of the line work. They cater to your every need and make sure you’re as comfortable as possible. I’ve had a... Read More

    Troy Tyson Avatar Troy Tyson

    Staff was so nice very helpful doctor very informative and helpful as well wait time 10minutes at the most I had tooth issue got me in and out same day... Read More

    Trenise HONORE Avatar Trenise HONORE

  • Awesome visit. Employees are nice and always work with you.

    Billy Ozenne Avatar Billy Ozenne

    Dr Price and Lisa are the Best! Love lake area dentistry!

    Anna Marcantel Avatar Anna Marcantel

    Every one nice and informative 👍

    Robert Elfert Avatar Robert Elfert

  • Love everyone at this practice—we have been patients for years. They never rush through an appointment, every question gets answered and they always make us feel like family.

    Roxanne Morgan Avatar Roxanne Morgan

    Always professional and caring. They take very good care of my needs.

    Pamela Honeycutt Avatar Pamela Honeycutt

    Lake Area Dentistry is a wonderful place to receive dental services. I have been a patient for over 30 years. They are always prompt and professional. They understand dental... Read More

    Vi Kohrs Avatar Vi Kohrs

  • Professional. Made me comfortable before and during procedure. Checking in and out is always quick. Dr. Henaghan and Dr. Doucet and his team are wonderful! The dental hygienists... Read More

    Christine Broussard Doucet Avatar Christine Broussard Doucet

    Great staff. Very friendly and professional. Great experience.

    kevin fontenot Avatar kevin fontenot

    Our experience here has always been pleasant. A very friendly and professional staff.

    Sam Battaglia Avatar Sam Battaglia

  • Had my teeth cleaned today. Excellent job.

    Willyne Kestel Avatar Willyne Kestel

    Great experience for a dentist office they are very gentle ans explain everything along the way ❤️

    Cynthia Harville Avatar Cynthia Harville

    Carmen is awesome! Had the pleasure of seeing Dr Price and I was equally impressed.

    Novella Franklin Avatar Novella Franklin

  • As much as I dislike going to the dentist, it is always an easy task at Lake Area Denistry!! Thankful for their kindness and understanding for those of us who... Read More

    Tracey Rust Avatar Tracey Rust

    On schedule. Everything good.

    mel cole Avatar mel cole

    Quick and friendly

    Rod Lauderdale Avatar Rod Lauderdale

  • Great place great ppl great work

    Brandon Fontenot Avatar Brandon Fontenot

    The lady that answers the phone is amazing!!! The one who signs you in is always helpful!! The lady that does the insurance is very helpful and understanding!!! All the... Read More

    Carlotta Savoie Avatar Carlotta Savoie

    All Good!

    Terry Boudreaux Avatar Terry Boudreaux

  • Great experience. Thorough cleaning by Ashley. Will be back

    Grant Price Avatar Grant Price

    Great patient care and concern! Time efficient, too!

    Patti McIver Avatar Patti McIver

    Office visit was excellent .. Dental Hygienist was friendly and very thorough.. Thanks

    P THIGPEN Avatar P THIGPEN

  • 12 out of 10. Highly recommend!

    Anthony Richard Avatar Anthony Richard

    The staff and doctors were fantastic as always! Thanks you!

    perchjerker chris Avatar perchjerker chris

    I'm not a patient here (yet?), but the receptionist that picked up the phone and spoke to me was so kind and helpful and gave me genuine and excellent advice... Read More

    Nico V Avatar Nico V

  • Best Denist Office! Professional yet kind and courteous. Includes (All the staff).

    Chris Collins Gonsoulin Avatar Chris Collins Gonsoulin

    10/2024 update I can not express how much I love LAKE AREA DENTISTRY ......from before you walk in till after you leave they communicate everything with you and when you... Read More

    stacey clement Avatar stacey clement

    Went in today to get assessments on work I needed done and to set up and plan to get everything taken care! I suffer from severe generalized anxiety and the... Read More

    Jacob Self Avatar Jacob Self

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