Sedation Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Your comfort is important to us. If you're apprehensive about dental visits and procedures, our team will work to quell your fears and provide a safe, stress-free, and virtually painless experience. Talk with us about your concerns so that we can ensure you receive the best anesthesia option for your unique situation. Dr. Vinings offers several sedation dentistry methods to sooth nerves, banish fears, and create a state of complete calm.

Local Anesthesia Local anesthesia is the most common form of anesthesia we use. Dr. Vinings has an extraordinarily gentle injection technique, so patients rarely feel any discomfort during the injection process. Local anesthesia numbs only a portion of the mouth and face, so patients are completely coherent and can communicate with us during treatment. The effects subside relatively quickly, so you can drive and resume normal activities following your appointment.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, reduces anxiety and lessens potential discomfort. This anesthesia option is delivered through a mask and, like local numbing, allows you to communicate with our team at all times. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, so you can return to your normal activities when you leave our office.

Conscious Sedation For patients who experience dental anxiety, conscious sedation can work wonders. We'll give you a sedative to take about an hour before your procedure. When you enter a state of complete mental and physical relaxation, Dr. Vinings will perform your dental work. He can potentially complete several procedures in a single visit! Because conscious sedation completely relaxes you, we ask that you have a friend or relative drive you to and from your appointment. This type of sedation wears off gradually. You should clear your schedule for the remainder of the day following your appointment.

IV Sedation For lengthy, involved procedures or for patients who have trouble sitting in a dental chair for long periods of time, we'll bring in a licensed anesthesiologist to administer intravenous (IV) sedation. This method of anesthesia is similar to conscious sedation in that it puts patients into a deep state of relaxation. IV sedation takes time to subside, so you'll need a ride home after your appointment, and you shouldn't schedule any activities for the rest of the day.