A More Comfortable Way to Enjoy Dental Care
We want all of our patients – even the most nervous ones – to be able to relax and enjoy their dental experience with us. We have chosen the safest sedation methods available, and of course Drs. Hakes and Eliassen, as well as their team, have received extensive training in all of the methods we employ.
Our Sedation Methods Include:
- Minimal Sedation – A gentle state of sedation in which a patient can interact with us. Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”) is one type of minimal sedation.
- Conscious Oral Sedation, or Moderate Sedation – A moderate amount of sedation in which the patient can still interact, but it does not wear off as quickly. Oral sedation is a good example.
- IV Sedation – Intravenous sedation (IV sedation) is an option that allows dental procedures to be performed while you are under the influence of a sedative drug given via an injection. It is often referred to as ‘sleep dentistry’ or ‘twilight dentistry’.
In all processes for which we use sedation, the patients are constantly monitored, both by a member of our team and electronically. During the process of IV Sedation, Drs. Hakes & Eliassen utilize the services of Dr. Rick Montandon, a dental anesthesiologist for administering and monitoring all patient vitals while they are performing their procedures. Dr. Montandon earned his dental degree and then completed an intensive 4-year anesthesia residency.
Who May Need Sedation Dentistry? When patients are clinically afraid (or phobic), have a very low tolerance for pain, a lot of work to be done, strong gag reflexes, or certain physical disabilities, sedation may be necessary. We may also recommend sedation for treatments such as bridges, extractions, cosmetic procedures, and gum treatments.
How Can I Prepare for Sedation? If we tell you it is necessary or you plan to use sedation during your visit, it is imperative that you let us know about any medications you’re on or any recent or current medical treatments that are part of your life. We will provide clear and thorough instructions about any before- or after-care that is necessary because of sedation. Drs. Hakes and Eliassen are both highly qualified practitioners of conscious sedation. Both have numerous postgraduate seminars including 26 hours of training through Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS Education). Additionally, both rigorously maintain CPR and first aid certification each year. Both Dr. Hakes and Dr. Eliassen are certified in ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support). All to ensure both your safety and comfort during your visit. Please ask if you have questions or concerns. We are happy to provide additional information.
