Anxious Patients - Sedation | Fairview Dentistry

Fairview Dentistry in St. Thomas aims to maintain a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere to help any nervous patient feel at ease – no matter their age or dental need.

Why are people afraid of the dentist?

Whether you need a cavity filled, require treatment for sore gums, have a chipped tooth or need dentures, we aim to help our St. Thomas patients stay as relaxed as possible during their dentist appointment. We try to maintain a comfortable atmosphere so that our patients look forward to their visits.

Uncertainty

We are all afraid to try new things. At Fairview Dentistry, our team will create a treatment plan made just for you.

We'll keep you involved with the creation of your treatment plan and make sure it suits your oral health needs.

Our team will walk you through each and every appointment as we want to make sure that you are fully aware of a procedure before we perform it.

Previous Bad Experiences

When we have bad experiences they can stay with us for a long time. We want to help you through your appointment, so please let us know if you have had a previous bad dental experience. We want our patients to feel comfortable and safe in our office.

Let us know when you are ready and we will walk you through your appointment and your procedure. If at any time you wish to stop a procedure or an appointment, please give us a signal and we will begin again when you are ready.

Sedation Options

Oral Conscious Sedation

While we try to make your visit to our practice as comfortable as possible, we understand that some patients experience very real (and often debilitating) anxiety associated with dental phobia.

For those anxious about visiting the dentist, we offer oral conscious sedation, known as sedation dentistry. Those who need multiple procedures performed in one visit may benefit from this procedure as well. It involves taking an oral sedative prior to your visit, then receiving nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to supplement the sedative's effects.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Commonly known as 'laughing gas', nitrous oxide is used in surgery and dentistry for its pain-blocking and pain-reducing effects. It is called 'laughing gas' because of the euphoric effects of inhaling it. Improving patient comfort levels and can help relieve anxiety in patients of any age.

The gas (a nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture) is delivered through a facemask. You simply breathe normally, relax and remain comfortable while the dentist takes care of your teeth. You can rest assured that the amount of gas that is received is keenly monitored and controlled to ensure your safety at all times.

The effects of nitrous oxide do not last long and decrease once the mask is removed. If the gas is the only anesthesia you receive, it is likely that you will be able to drive yourself home after your visit and can continue your daily activities as normal.

Services for Anxious Patients