Sedation Dentistry | Painless Dentist Knoxville TN

Woman with tooth pain. At Grassy Creek Dental, we see dental emergency patients immediately. Abscess, infection, toothache, traumatic injury, broken tooth, dry socket, and more.

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

While other dental clinics offer IV sedation dentistry and other sedative medications, we provide our patients with nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.

Our goal is to ease you into the dental appointment with the safest sedation options in Knoxville.

Nitrous Oxide

One common type is nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. This sedative is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose and helps patients feel calm while remaining awake and responsive. The effects wear off quickly, allowing patients to drive themselves home post-treatment without lingering drowsiness.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral dental sedation is another widely used method where patients take a pill, usually Halcion, about an hour before their appointment. This type of sedation ranges from minimal to moderate, depending on the dosage. Patients often feel drowsy and may even fall asleep during the procedure, but they can be easily awakened. Oral sedation is particularly beneficial for those with moderate to severe dental anxiety.

Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

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Dental Anxiety

Many patients we’ve worked struggle to see the dentist for various reasons, whether it be past trauma or other struggles. Dr. Hollingsworth is passionate about giving you peace of mind and a stress-free visit.

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Low Pain Threshold

Individuals with a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth find sedation particularly helpful. The ability to relax completely allows them to receive necessary treatments without experiencing severe discomfort.

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Extensive Dental Work

Patients requiring extensive dental work also benefit significantly from sedation dentistry. Procedures that would typically require multiple visits can often be completed in fewer sessions when the patient is sedated.

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Gag Reflex

Those with a strong gag reflex or difficulty sitting still during dental procedures are ideal candidates for sedation dentistry. The calming effects of sedation help control involuntary movements and reflexes.

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Neurodiversity

Additionally, neurodiverse patients or those who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past can find sedation dentistry to be a game-changer in managing their oral health.

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And More!

Have questions to see if sedation dentistry is right for you? Give us a call today to speak with our dental hygienist so they can consult with you on the best level of sedation for your situation.

Meet Your Knoxville Sedation Dentist!

Dr. Jay Hollingsworth is dedicated to providing you anxiety-free dental sedation. With years of experience and specialized training in sedation techniques, he has helped countless patients overcome their dental fears.

His compassionate approach and commitment to patient comfort set him apart as a trusted figure in the dental community. Dr. Hollingsworth takes the time to understand each individual's anxiety levels and medical history, ensuring that the chosen sedation method is safe and effective.

His dedication to continuous education and staying updated on the latest advancements in sedation dentistry ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of care.

Sedation Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions

Is sedation dentistry safe?

When administered by a trained professional like Dr. Hollingsworth, sedation dentistry is extremely safe. The dentist monitors the patient's vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure their well-being. Dentists like Dr. Hollingsworth undergo extensive training to administer sedation and monitor patients effectively throughout the procedure.

What dental procedures can be performed under sedation?

Virtually any dental treatment, from routine cleanings to complex surgeries, can be done while the patient is sedated. This versatility makes sedation dentistry a viable option for patients with varying needs and anxiety levels. Intensive procedures, such as tooth extractions and tooth abscesses, will require a greater amount of sedation.

How long does it take for sedation effects to wear off?

The type of sedation used will influence recovery. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, allowing patients to resume normal activities almost immediately. Oral sedation may require a bit more time for the effects to fully subside, so it's advisable to have someone accompany you to the appointment.

How much does sedation dentistry cost?

Sedation dentistry varies in cost depending on the number of dental treatments being undergone, the duration of sedation, and other crucial factors. We recommend calling our Grassy Creek office so we can give you a specific price tailored to your dental history and needs.

Will I be completely unconscious during sedation dentistry?

Most sedation methods used in dental practices allow patients to remain conscious and responsive, having little to no memory of the procedure. General anesthesia, which renders patients fully unconscious, is rarely used in dental settings and is reserved for specific cases requiring extensive surgical intervention.

Can a dentist put me to sleep for dental emergencies?

Yes we can! Dental emergencies like extractions, cracked teeth, and other traumatic injuries can be extremely painful. These procedures may include local anesthetics to ease your suffering too. Dr. Hollingsworth and our sedation staff would be glad to make your dental emergency as pain-free as possible. We also offer same-day appointments for these difficult situations to lower your anxiety.

Real Relief with Sedation Dentistry

We're proud to have given reassurance and peace of mind to dental patients all across Knoxville.

I might be a grown man, but dentists bring out a level of anxiety I'm never ready for. Just a nice overall experience. As someone who has some strong trauma related to dentists, I would happily go back here.

Quin Hap

I have severe anxiety when it comes to the dentist, and my daughter struggles with lots of sensory issues & autism. They went above and beyond to calm our nerves. Their bedside manner is out of this world.

Elise Russell

I have really bad dental anxiety and Dr. Hollingsworth and his staff always go above and beyond to make sure I'm comfortable. I'm now to a point that I feel that I may no longer need anxiety meds or nitrous during procedures. I can't recommend them enough!

Korie Bunch

I have really bad anxiety when it comes to the dentist due to past experiences so I was very nervous! I’m pregnant so there’s only so much medication they could safely give me to numb me! It definitely wasn’t easy BUT every staff member that was involved in my care was amazing!!

Do You Struggle with Dental Anxiety and Trauma?

Sedation Dentistry in Knoxville, TN