SEDATION DENTISTRY

ALSO SERVING BONITA SPRINGS, FL

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SEDATION DENTISTRY

For some people, regular dental cleanings and checkups can be a big source of discomfort and anxiety, which may prevent consistent care that protects the teeth and gums from costly and painful problems like decay and gum disease. If you find yourself hesitant to visit the dentist because of fear or physical discomfort, you may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry under the care of Dr. Bradley Piotrowski in Naples. Below, you’ll get a closer look at the types of sedation available for your comfort along with some tips to help you ease anxiety before your appointment with Dr. Piotrowski.

Causes of Discomfort in the Dentist’s Office

Older adults who have not been to the dentist lately often have false expectations about the pain and discomfort involved in common dental procedures. Historically, procedures like root canals and tooth extraction may have been painful and unpleasant, but modern technologies have made these services much easier on patients. If you are generally uneasy about dental checkups because of the close contact required to clean and examine your teeth, sedation dentistry can help you relax and remain at ease while your teeth get the care they need. You might also be more comfortable in the dentist’s office if you schedule a preliminary visit to discuss your dental health history before getting in the chair for a full exam.

Types of Sedation

There are a few different types of sedation used in the dentist’s office. Generally, Dr. Piotrowski will recommend oral or light conscious sedation, which will allow you to stay awake in a state of deep relaxation rather than falling asleep. For more involved procedures or patients with special needs, an anesthesiologist may be brought into the office to provide general anesthesia, which will put you completely to sleep.

  • Oral medication – With oral sedation, you will be given a prescription for Valium or a similar relaxing sedative that should be taken prior to your appointment. You will need to have a ride to and from the dentist’s office, but you should remain cognizant and aware throughout your appointment with a sense of overall relaxation.


  • Light conscious sedation – Light conscious sedation is given intravenously, but it will not put you to sleep. You do not need any preparation ahead of time, and you may be in a more dreamlike state during your sedation. This type of sedation may be most appropriate for procedures like dental implants or root canals, which each require a longer visit to the dentist’s office.



  • General anesthesia – General anesthesia is typically used only for oral surgery with patients who have extreme dental anxiety or more complex cases requiring a more involved surgical approach.

Whether you are due for a checkup or you need extensive restorative care to repair your smile, call the office of Dr. Bradley Piotrowski at (239) 719-2576. We have been serving the Naples community since 2001, and we remain dedicated to the most advanced technologies and equipment to enhance patient comfort and clinical outcomes.

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