About half of Americans do not visit the dentist, and up to 20% of this number feel scared, anxious, or stressed about dental appointments. Dental phobia has many levels. Some folks just get kind of queasy, while others experience debilitating fear. The good news is, you don’t have to be scared any longer. You’re thinking, yeah right! Consider, however, that while Dr. Pate and our staff are friendly, gentle, and caring, I’m talking about medication to ease your fear. This is not a mind-over-matter suggestion. Sedation dentistry will make you feel relaxed and calm during dental visits.

In addition to providing nitrous oxide (laughing gas), a safe and effective way of alleviating dental phobia, Dr. Pate also offers oral conscious sedation. He can prescribe a single dose of anti-anxiety medication for you to take before your dental treatment. The drug will make you feel groggy, but it will not induce sleep. Some people do fall asleep because they’re so relaxed. Rest assured, with oral sedation, you’ll retain the ability to speak and respond to Dr. Pate. While you’re sedated, we’ll keep a close eye on your heart rate, as well as your comfort level.

Sedation dentistry is perfect for patients who:

• Are scared or stressed about dental visits
• Fear pain
• Have had unpleasant dental experiences
• Have a sensitive gag reflex
• Have physical discomfort in the dental chair
• Have difficulty or experience pain holding their mouths open
• Need many hours of dental work completed as quickly as possible
• Have special needs because of cognitive or mental disabilities

To learn more about sedation dentistry, call Dr. Peter Pate. Our office is in the Buckhead area of Atlanta, GA. Feel free to talk with us about your concerns on the phone, or schedule a non-clinical appointment so that we can discuss sedation dentistry before you decide upon treatment. Call our office at 404-266-9424 to schedule an appointment today!