Sedation Dentistry in Bothell, WA

woman on couch relaxing Every year millions of Americans skip their dental visit because of stress or fear. At Annigan Dental, we don’t want patients to miss out on receiving the quality dental care they need for any reason. Our Kenmore, WA area practice strives to provide all patients with a comfortable, relaxing experience, and Dr. Henry Huse partners with his patients to plan treatment they fully understand. For those patients who need extra help relaxing for their appointment, we also offer sedation dentistry.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as “laughing gas,” is inhaled through the nose during dental procedures, and results in a feeling of euphoria. This type of sedation is ideal for patients who need a little extra help becoming numb or relaxing their gag reflexes. The dosage of nitrous oxide can be adjusted throughout the procedure, and sedative effects diminish immediately. Patients who choose nitrous oxide can drive themselves to and from their appointment, and feel free to resume daily activities directly following the dental treatment.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is often recommended for patients with severe dental phobia or anxiety. A sedative is taken in pill form prior to arrival at our Bothell, WA office. This means patients are relaxed before they ever leave home. Throughout treatment, patients feel relaxed, but typically remain awake. After treatment, patients report remembering very little if anything about their visit. Those who choose oral conscious sedation need a friend or family member to drive them to and from Annigan Dental, and monitor them periodically over the next several hours.

Why Consider Conscious Sedation

For patients with dental anxiety the reason to choose sedation may be obvious, but stress or fear are not the only reasons to consider dental sedation. At Annigan Dental, we recommend sedation for patients who:

Have sensitive gag reflex
Have sensitive teeth and gums
Do not become numb using local anesthetics
Experience discomfort when sitting in a dental chair for an extended time
Have cognitive impediments that may result in undo fear or agitation
Need to complete extensive or numerous procedures in a single visit

At Annigan Dental, we’re always working hard to give our patients new reasons to smile. Contact our Bothell, WA practice today if you have any questions about sedation dentistry options, or if you’d like to schedule your first appointment with Dr. Hsue. Our office also welcomes new patients from the nearby areas of Mill Creek, Kirkland, Woodinville, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Kingsgate, and beyond. We hope you’ll choose to visit us for many years to come!