SEDATION DENTISTRY
NEW HYDE PARK, NY
If you struggle with dental phobia, a visit to the dentist’s office can be quite overwhelming. Those who are particularly anxious about the dentist tend to avoid the care they need, and their oral health can suffer. At Vinciguerra & Mathew, LLP in New Hyde Park, NY, we have created an atmosphere where you can feel entirely comfortable. To put your mind at ease, Dr. Vinciguerra & Dr. Mathew provides a full range of sedation dentistry options. You can choose from nitrous oxide, oral sedation and intravenous (IV) sedation.
We provide sedation dentistry so that you can receive the dental treatment you need in comfort.
Dental anxiety is extremely common. It is estimated that in the U.S. alone, up to 40 million people avoid going to the dentist out of fear. We understand that the reasons for this can vary substantially, ranging from sensitive teeth to prior bad experiences. However, avoiding dental treatment can have long-term consequences for both your oral health and your day-to-day life.
An aching tooth or bleeding gums may be a sign of periodontal disease that, if left untreated, could lead to tooth loss and jawbone atrophy. Crooked or missing teeth can leave patients feeling self-conscious enough to avoid photos or family functions as well as make eating and speaking challenging.
We provide sedation dentistry so that you can receive the dental treatment you need in comfort. We deliver these medications before or during your appointment in order to help you relax.
We offer several different sedation dentistry options at Vinciguerra & Mathew, LLP, including:
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is administered through a mask over the nose. Patients remain awake but relaxed. Since the effects of nitrous oxide wear off immediately, patients can drive themselves home following their procedure.
Oral Sedation
This medication is typically taken about an hour beforehand or even the night before treatment.
While patients will remain conscious, they usually do not have any memory of the visit. Oral sedation can impair your ability to drive safely, so you should schedule a friend or loved one to take you to and from your appointment.
IV Sedation
This option is administered intravenously and offers a fast-acting, deep level of sedation. Dr. Silverstein or Dr. Vinciguerra often recommends IV sedation for especially anxious patients or those who are undergoing more extensive procedures. Patients receiving IV sedation must have someone who can drive them home after their appointment.
When patients elect to receive sedation dentistry, we can often perform multiple procedures in a single appointment. Reducing your number of visits can save you time and money.
Although many patients qualify for sedation dentistry, we typically recommend it for those who:
- Have a low pain threshold
- Cannot sit still for extended periods of time
- Have sensitive teeth
- Have a bad gag reflex
- Need a significant amount of dental work
Unfortunately, sedation dentistry is not appropriate for everyone. If you suffer from sleep apnea, snoring or any other condition that interferes with breathing, we may suggest other options to keep you comfortable in the office. Your dentist can review your options during your consultation.
“I’m originally from California and I despise the dentist and everything associated with it. Needless to say, I took a chance and came in for a cleaning and regular maintenance. Wow, it was like being in Disneyland and here I was a small child, unafraid and relaxed. No Dental Institution has ever made me feel more accommodated and less of a nuisance. Since calling me old fashioned but I don’t like anyone in my mouth unless we are dating or a grandparent of mine. This is genuinely my truth visit them yourself to get your own.” ~ Azali Akili A.
