Sedation Dentistry in Burlington Township, NJ & Surrounding Areas

Dorfner Dental Studio

Rachel Dorfner, DMD

General and Cosmetic Dentistry located in Burlington, NJ

It’s estimated that 36% of the population experiences dental anxiety. Though common, without taking steps to address it, dental anxiety may keep you from receiving routine oral health care. At Dorfner Dental Studio, general and cosmetic dentist Rachel Dorfner, DMD, offers sedation dentistry to people who fear the dentist or experience dental anxiety. To make an appointment at the practice in Burlington, New Jersey, call the office today or schedule online.

Sedation Dentistry Q&A

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses anesthesia and prescription medication to help you relax while receiving oral health care.

At Dorfner Dental Studio, Dr. Dorfner offers sedation dentistry to people of all ages. Whether you need an oral exam and teeth cleaning or root canal therapy, sedation dentistry can make the process more comfortable and hassle-free.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe and usually well-tolerated, but it can present risks. During your initial consultation at Dorfner Dental Studio, let Dr. Dorfner know if you have an underlying medical condition like a congenital heart defect or kidney disease. These issues won’t keep you from undergoing sedation dentistry, but they may increase the risk of complications.

What types of medication are used in sedation dentistry?

At Dorfner Dental Studio, Dr. Dorfner offers several types of sedation dentistry, including:

Inhaled minimal sedation (nitrous oxide)

Inhaled minimal sedation uses nitrous oxide or “laughing gas.” Laughing gas is a clear, odorless sedative that you inhale through a mask placed over your nose. The gas helps you relax and encourages feelings of euphoria.

Nitrous oxide wears off quickly. It’s the only type of sedation dentistry that allows you to drive home following treatment.

Oral sedation

Oral sedation uses prescription medication like Halcion® to help you relax during oral health care. With oral sedation, you take a pill at home about an hour before your appointment. Then, a friend or family member drives you to and from your appointment at Dorfner Dental Studio.

Oral sedation may make you feel drowsy and you may even fall asleep during treatment.

Will I also need a local anesthetic?

Should the treatment involve more than a check-up and prophylactic cleaning, local anesthetic will be administered in the same manner that it would be if the patient were not under oral sedation.