While some patients might enjoy going to the dentist, that’s not the case for most people. Some just tolerate it, but others have a deep, paralyzing fear.
If you’re one of those people, we’re here to help! We’re always willing to walk you through your visit to help ease your anxiety, and if you still need a little more help– we offer sedation dentistry.
What To Expect
By knowing what your appointment entails, it can help calm your anxiety. We have two different types of dental visits. The first is a basic visit for those who are current with their dental care and are just due for their regular six-month cleaning and checkup. The second is a comprehensive first visit for patients who have significant dental issues that need to be addressed.
Basic Visit
For a basic visit, you’ll first be greeted by our receptionist who will help you with your paperwork. Then you’ll meet the dental assistant who will give you a tour of the office if you want it. We’ll do x-rays if they’re needed, our hygienist will clean your teeth, and you’ll have a checkup from Dr. Arnold. You’ll have some time to get to know us and ask any questions you may have. In addition, we’ll discuss the health of your teeth and gums and make any recommendations we think will be helpful to you.
Comprehensive First Visit
For a more detailed visit, Dr. Arnold will want to meet you and find out why you’re here, and how he can help. We’ll probably need some x-rays, followed by a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation that takes about an hour.
You’ll need to schedule a follow-up appointment to have any work done.
Sedation Dentistry
We offer sedation dentistry for any type of appointment– even cleanings. Our goal is to get you on the path to a gorgeous, healthy smile– all while making you as comfortable as possible.
What Is It?
Sedation is a medical way of relaxing a patient. Dr. Arnold uses Oral Conscious Sedation, which is a fairly deep level of sedation. You’re so relaxed and comfortable that your memory of the appointment will be blurry. In fact, some patients don’t remember their appointment at all.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation involves taking a pill about an hour before your appointment, which sedates you for several hours. During the appointment, your vital functions are monitored and your dental work is completed while you’re in a dreamy, relaxed state. The sedative effects will wear off gradually, so you’ll need to have someone drive you home afterward.
Patients who haven’t been to the dentist in a long time often find that they need a little extra work done to repair the damage of years without dental care. Sedation is especially useful in those cases. Because you’re so relaxed, you can have more work done in one sitting. Without it, many patients find it difficult to sit that long with their mouth open.
Is It Safe?
You don’t need to worry, sedation dentistry has a long track record of safety. It’s called conscious sedation because you aren’t unconscious. Your vital functions continue normally, and your reflexes, such as coughing to clear your airway– are fully functional. It may also reassure you to know that Dr. Arnold did a General Practice Residency in anesthesia, so he has more training than most when it comes to sedation. You’ll be in good hands.
Make An Appointment
People who haven’t been to the dentist in a while fear they’ll be judged by the dentist and staff. We can assure you that’s not the case with us. We realize that it’s pretty normal for people with dental anxiety to avoid visiting us. We’ll just be glad you decided to come!
If you’re ready to try sedation dentistry, you can call our office to schedule an appointment. Or if you prefer, click here to request an appointment online.
Ever since he was little Dr. J. Fred Arnold wanted to be a dentist. He has lived in Kentucky all of his life, except for three years he spent serving in the Air Force (1984-1987). He and his wife Holly have raised their family here and couldn’t imagine spending life anywhere else. They love the great schools and the emphasis on arts and culture.
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