Sedation Dentisty in
Brandon, MS

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the practice of using sedative medications to help people get the dental care they need. Lots of people have dental anxiety, and fear of the dentist can stop them from getting proper dental care. With sedation dentistry, you can overcome your fear, stay comfortable, and get the treatment you need at Burke Dental Group. Interested in sedation dentistry in Brandon, MS? Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Amanda Burke, and explore your options for sedation right away.

tooth and mirror tool

Did you know…

tooth icon

Nitrous oxide was first used to sedate dental patients in the early 1800s, making it one of the oldest forms of sedation still used in the medical field today.

Ready to book your appointment?

What To Expect At Your Sedation Dentistry Appointment

Before your visit

You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for laughing gas sedation at Burke Dental Group. However, we do recommend avoiding eating heavy meals for at least two hours before your visit. This reduces your risk of nausea.

Sedation and numbing

Dr. Burke will place a comfortable mask over your nose. Then, she will send a mixture of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen through the mask and into your lungs. Breathe in as directed. She will also numb the treatment area to prepare for your procedure.

Performing your procedure

As the sedative takes hold, you will feel much more comfortable and relaxed. However, you will still remain fully conscious and aware of your surroundings. You’ll be able to respond to questions and commands, too.

Concluding your treatment

Once your treatment is over, Dr. Burke will adjust your nose mask to send a steady flow of oxygen into your lungs. This purges any remaining nitrous oxide, and reduces post-sedation side effects. Then, you’ll be sent home to recover. 

Types Of Sedation We Offer

View our services

Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide) Sedation

We offer nitrous oxide sedation at our office, which is also known as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide reduces anxiety, creates feelings of euphoria (happiness), and allows you to relax during your appointment at our office.It also has minimal side effects, and wears off within a few minutes after your procedure. This means that, unlike with other types of sedation, you can drive yourself home or even go back to work or school after treatment. This makes laughing gas very convenient for patients with busy schedules.

Digital X-Rays

Digital x-rays are safe, quick, and comfortable. Using the latest technology, we can create crisp, high-resolution images of your mouth’s structure, so we can make accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. Digital x-rays use only a fraction of the radiation as traditional film x-rays, so you can rest easy. Most patients receive one or two full sets of x-rays every year, but we may recommend additional imaging in the case of a dental emergency, or if we find an oral health issue that we need to investigate further.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are one of the best ways to keep dental decay at bay. A simple, non-invasive procedure, fluoride treatments help to keep your enamel strong. After your cleaning, we’ll apply a fluoride-rich varnish or gel; we may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes or so following your visit. Fluoride helps kickstart a process called “remineralization,” which restores essential minerals like calcium and phosphates to your teeth, keeping your enamel hard and resistant to acids, like those that cause tooth decay.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a great way for patients to protect their teeth from decay. Dental sealants are often recommended for children, but can still be a great option for patients of all ages. Plus, dental sealants can provide protection for your teeth for years after being applied.

Applying dental sealants is a quick, non-invasive procedure that utilizes a dental resin that is applied to the molars. The uneven surface of molars, which are located in the rear of the mouth, are filled with grooves where plaque and bacteria can flourish. After application, the resin is cured with a UV light, causing it to harden into a powerful barrier between your teeth and the foods, drinks, acid, and bacteria that lead to decay.

Periodontal Care

Gum disease is extremely common, and can result in an array of oral health problems if left untreated, even including bone resorption and tooth loss. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It's also the only stage that can be truly reversed with deep cleanings and good at-home hygiene. If you are diagnosed with gingivitis, it is still possible to regain control of your oral health by staying on top of your regular cleanings, checkups, and at-home care.

More advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, have irreversible effects on your oral health, such as gum recession and bone loss. However, the progression of periodontitis can be stopped in its tracks, even if the effects cannot be reversed, though it requires more advanced and frequent treatment. Most patients will require deep cleaning sessions every three to four months. Treatments can include deep cleanings, scaling and root planing, and laser therapy, and can help preserve your oral health.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer screenings are a part of every preventive visit, and are a quick way to fortify your peace of mind. Through consistent exams, we can catch oral cancer early on, which gives us a better chance at treating it before it spreads. A routine oral cancer screening can even save your life! 

Your dentist will examine your gums, tongue, and the rest of the soft tissues in your mouth, keeping an eye out for lesions and other abnormalities like lumps and discolorations. If there is anything that concerns us, we may recommend getting a biopsy, which will be analyzed by a specialist to determine the cause of the abnormality. Regular oral cancer screenings allow us to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.  

Have Questions About Sedation Dentistry? Find Answers Here.

arrow icon

Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Have Any Side Effects?

Yes. However, they're minor and wear off pretty quickly. Once your sedation starts to wear off, you may feel a bit nauseous, get a headache, shiver, or feel dizzy. Most patients start to feel normal and fully alert within 5 minutes, but it can take up to 15 minutes for some patients.

arrow icon

Am I A Good Candidate For Sedation With Nitrous Oxide?

As long as you’re healthy, you’re likely a good candidate for nitrous oxide sedation. However, certain people may not qualify, such as those with certain lung problems like COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder), a history of substance use, or pregnant women. Dr. Burke can discuss your health history with you, and determine if you’re a good candidate for sedation with nitrous oxide at Burke Dental Group.

Did you know…

floss icon

Save yourself money, time, and future dental pain by keeping up with your preventive care.