Sedation Dentistry Specialist

Kyle D. Kern, DMD

Family & General Dentist located in Newberg, OR

Millions of Americans avoid the dentist due to anxiety or a phobia. Sedation dentistry can help to put patients at ease, so they can remain in the dental chair and not miss out on crucial oral health care and preventive care services. At his office in Newberg, Oregon, Kyle D. Kern, DMD, provides oral sedation with medication to help patients overcome their fears. For compassionate dental care, visit Dr. Kern and his team. Call or book online today.

Sedation Dentistry Q&A

What is sedation dentistry?

Many people experience fear and anxiety surrounding the dentist and specific dental procedures.

Sedation dentistry involves various methods and processes to manage pain and anxiety. There are three primary types of sedation dentistry: oral, inhalation, and intravenous.

Dr. Kern administers oral sedation with medication to induce a calming state that allows patients to relax and receive the treatments they need with comfort and ease.

How does oral sedation dentistry work?

The oral sedation process starts with a sedative pill that you take one hour before treatment.

If the first dose doesn’t achieve desired results before the treatment, you might need to take a second dose.

Once the medication kicks in, you feel more drowsy and relaxed. Throughout the procedure, your heart rate is closely monitored, and you’re under constant medical supervision to ensure you’re breathing correctly.

You’re typically conscious enough to respond to physical stimulation and verbal commands. While you might feel drowsy, you will be awake and in a state of near-sleep.

Since oral conscious sedation doesn’t dull pain, you might also receive a local anesthetic.

Be sure to arrange for someone to transport you to and from your procedure, since your motor skills will be impaired from the sedation.

Why choose sedation dentistry?

Many people avoid the dentist due to anxiety. If you’re one of those people, you might need more invasive treatments in the future as a result of a lack of preventive dental care now.

Sedation dentistry can reduce your anxiety and allow you to sit back in the dental chair.

Sedation dentistry is often advisable for patients who have:

  • Overly sensitive teeth
  • A high level of anxiety or fear
  • Pronounced gag reflex
  • More complex dental complications
  • Difficulty responding to methods of numbing
  • Suffered from traumatic dental experiences in the past
  • TMJ and the inability to open your mouth for long periods of time

Without recurring dental care, your smile can diminish, and your teeth can undergo damage and disease. Don’t let anxiety get in the way of receiving necessary dental care. Dr. Kern is here to help every step of the way. If you feel anxious, discuss this with him.

Are you due for a dental checkup? Call or click to schedule your checkup online.