Sedation Dentistry

Are you the kind of person who would choose to stay at home with a terrible toothache rather than brave a dental visit? Thanks to sedation dentistry at Gulch Dental Studio, you can now receive the dental care you need while remaining relaxed and comfortable. Learn more about the sedation options available at our dental studio in Nashville, TN...

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry includes a range of options designed to meet each patient's specific needs so that even those with dental phobias can receive proper care. Dentists typically describe sedation as having four levels: mild, moderate, deep, and general:

Mild: Minimal sedation that calms you while you are awake, usually administered through nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or an oral sedative
Moderate: You are conscious but will remember little of the procedure, which involves taking an oral sedative beforehand
Deep: An intravenous (IV) sedative induces a state of near-sleep
General anesthesia: Complete unconsciousness, which is often recommended for complex or lengthy procedures

No matter which sedation method is used, our dentists will also administer local anesthetic to numb the treatment area.

Sedation at Gulch Dental Studio

At our dental office in Nashville, TN, our dentists can provide nitrous oxide and oral sedation on their own. We are also one of the only dental practices in Nashville that partner with a doctor licensed to provide general anesthesia. If you have severe dental anxiety, or if you are going to require a lengthy procedure, we will invite our anesthesia specialist to your appointment.

Because we offer every level of sedation, we can ensure your comfort during any procedure, whether it's a simple cleaning or a complex root canal. Whenever you work with our dentists, you can expect to experience a patient-centered environment with a team of professionals dedicated to your health and well-being. We will go to great lengths to protect your safety and peace of mind.

Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry? Consider Sedation If You Have...

Dental Anxiety

Patients of all ages can feel nervous about dentistry. If you're afraid of visits to the dentist, don't be embarrassed. However, it is important to find a way to tolerate a dental appointment so that you can achieve and maintain good oral health. Sedation dentistry could be the solution that enables you to receive the dental care you need.

Low Pain Tolerance

Some patients are more sensitive to discomfort than others. If your teeth and gums often hurt during a dental visit, talk to our dentists about sedation dentistry. Even a mild form of sedation will dull your senses for a more comfortable experience.

Extensive Dental Issues

Patients with gum disease, dental infections, extensive decay, or missing teeth can require lengthy procedures. If your teeth or gums are in bad shape, sedation dentistry can help you stay calm and relaxed during a longer appointment. In some cases, you may be able to fall asleep and then wake up with a totally transformed smile.

Sensitive Gag Reflexes

Patients who gag easily tend to find dental appointments very unpleasant. Sedation can temporarily weaken your gag reflex so that you can sit comfortably through your treatment. Plus, when you gag less, our dentists will be able to complete your visit in less time.

Could Sedation Dentistry Be Right for You? Find Out in a Consultation

Does dentistry make you uneasy? We can make your next dental appointment calm and relaxing.

Thanks to our chic, modern office and state-of-the-art technology, an appointment with our dentists won't feel like any dental visit you've had before. Plus, we can help you remain calm and relaxed throughout your treatment with safely administered sedation dentistry.

To find out if sedation dentistry is right for you, schedule a consultation with our Nashville dentists. You can get in touch with us by contacting us online or by calling:

(615) 953-3068

Email Gulch Dental Studio

5-Star Reviews

Dr. Harris is seriously a magician. He is transforming my smile and I’m so happy with the progress so far. He’s been so helpful in getting everything finished before my wedding, too! Highly recommend.

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Gulch dental is like visiting family every time I go! Dr. Harris and all the staff are so nice and friendly. You can tell right from walking in the team is dedicated to creating a comfortable elevated experience.

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Sedation Dentistry Candidacy

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Before you receive any type of sedation, our dentists will go over your medical history to determine which option would be safest and most appropriate for you. Some existing conditions, such as sleep apnea, should be disclosed and discussed prior to your procedure, as should any allergies or past negative reactions to anesthesia. If you have a history of substance abuse, sedation dentistry may not be a wise choice for you.

Our Sedation Options

Nitrous Oxide

The most well-known sedation method in dentistry, nitrous oxide is a clear, odorless gas that can be inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. Nitrous oxide is sometimes called "laughing gas" because it can make patients feel silly and giggly. Nitrous takes effect quickly and wears off quickly, so patients are able to drive themselves home after their treatment.

Oral Sedation

Our dentists can prescribe oral sedatives for you to take before your appointment. These medications will make you feel calm and relaxed, but you will still be awake during your procedure. The effects of the sedative can last for a few hours, so you will need to find someone who can drive you to and from your appointment if you choose oral sedation.

IV Sedation

For extensive procedures or patients with severe dental anxiety, our dentists partner with a doctor licensed to administer intravenous (IV) sedation. The specialist will place a needle in your arm and administer a dose of sedative that can either induce a twilight state, in which you are awake and cooperative but totally relaxed, or induce complete unconsciousness (general anesthesia). Patients who choose IV sedation need a companion to take them to and from their appointment.

Will Insurance Cover Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is not usually covered by dental insurance, so you should expect your out-of-pocket expenses to increase if you choose sedation. We want you to have a great experience with dentistry, regardless of your budget, so we'll help you review your insurance plan to see if there are any benefits you can access related to sedation. We also offer financing options that can help you afford sedation dentistry. Contact us for more information about our financing plans.

Patient Testimonials Read Our 5-Star Reviews

I had my first appointment here recently and had a very good experience and this will be my new home dentist. This location is easy to get to, clean, and cute. The entire care team from the moment I walked into the door was friendly, knowledgeable, and very accommodating. My hygienist was super gentle, informative, kind, and thorough. This is important to me as I am a nervous patient when it comes time to go to the dentist. If you are in search of a new dentist, I do recommend this practice!

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I've been a patient at Gulch Dental Studio for a couple years now, and I've been extremely happy with the service I've received. The staff has always been very friendly and accommodating, and the hygienist that does my cleaning is very thorough yet efficient. My appointments have always run on-time as well, which is important for me since I'm usually taking time away from work. I also recently had an old filling replaced and I was very impressed with Dr Harris. He was incredibly fast and made me feel as comfortable throughout the process. I've been so pleased as a patient here, and I couldn't imagine a reason to go anywhere else.

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