Sedation Dentistry in Erie, PA

We provide several levels of sedation to ensure the completion of all dental treatments in a safe and pleasant manner. Dr. Myers had extensive training during his 5 years with the US Navy in oral and IV sedation. Our objective is to have dental work completed in a non-stressful and atraumatic manner so you or your child can continue to maintain your oral care.

Who is dental sedation right for?

• Very young and/or uncooperative children
• Patients with dental anxiety or dental phobia
• Patients with a severe gag reflex
• Patients with allergies to local anesthetics
• Patients who are resistant to numbing
• Special needs patients

About oral sedation

Oral sedation aids in relaxing patients by slowing down the central nervous system. People remain aware of their surroundings but are less reactive to kinds of external stimuli that would normally trigger their anxiety, such as the sounds of dental tools or the smells of materials.

Sedatives also blunt or virtually eliminate a patient's perception of pain, alleviating stress. Modern dentists have a continually expanding array of medications at their disposal to make visits easier, often more powerful, and with fewer unpleasant side effects. The most appropriate sedative depends on the situation and the individual needs of the patient, with some formulations acting quickly but rapidly fading in potency and others lasting for hours. Your doctor will carefully weigh a number of factors carefully before administering treatment.

About IV sedation dentistry

IV, or intravenous sedation, is delivered through the veins and takes effect very rapidly. Patients with dental anxiety and special needs often prefer this option as it allows them to receive more dental care in less time, with minimal awareness of it during the appointment and little memory of it afterward. Your dentist can easily and quickly adjust sedation levels through this method, while monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen, and pulse.

Preparing for dental treatment under IV sedation

1. Consultation appointment: Before scheduling your IV sedation procedure, it's important that we know about your health history, current vitals, and any medications or supplements you may take so as to avoid complications!  Dr. Myers will explain the procedure in-depth so there are no surprises and nothing unexpected.
   
   
2. Confirm treatment plan: Once a treatment plan is agreed upon, we'll have you fill out paperwork giving your consent for treatment and answer any questions you may have, and issue pre-appointment instructions and/or medications. We may choose to contact your primary care physician or any medical specialists you see for a consultation. This is done to ensure that you're a good candidate for the type of treatment being proposed.
   
   
3. Necessary precautions: We require that a patient does not eat or drink eight hours prior to their IV sedation appointment, and a companion is required to take you to and from the dental office (as it is unsafe to drive or operate machinery afterward).
   
   
4. Treatment day: Just like oral sedation, Dr. Myers or one of his trained assistants will be with you at all times. You will never be left alone. Patients are encouraged to wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes that can easily be removed to ensure total relaxation. Upon lying down in the dental chair, an assistant will bring blankets to wrap around you so you feel comfortable and warm.