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Sedation Dentistry Specialist

Murray Family Dental

General and Cosmetic Dentistry & Teeth Whitening located in Carmel, IN

The idea of pain or prolonged discomfort causes many patients extreme anxiety that stops them from getting essential dental work, even simple procedures when they need it. Emily Murray, DDS, and the team at Murray Family Dental in Indianapolis offer multiple types of sedation dentistry to keep you pain- and anxiety-free during your procedures. To find out if you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry, call the office or book a consultation online today.

Sedation Dentistry Q & A

What is sedation dentistry?

Some people are understandably afraid of extensive dental work. For others, this fear runs much deeper: Even going to the dentist for even a quick cleaning and exam makes them extremely anxious. 

Because these fears can often cost patients their oral health, most dentists’ offices offer some form of sedation dentistry to alleviate pain and discomfort while the team works on your mouth.

What types of sedation dentistry are available?

There are several types of sedation available to make your dental work easy and settle your fears if you’re a candidate:

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is the most common dental sedative. After you inhale it, you feel relaxed and free from your anxieties. 

It doesn’t put you to sleep, but you’ll be able to lay still and comfortably as your dentist works. Nitrous oxide is often combined with local anesthesia that numbs your affected tooth.

Oral sedation

Dr. Murray gives you oral sedatives in the form of a pill or a liquid that you take by mouth. They keep you relaxed and can be combined with nitrous oxide for an extra boost. 

Am I a good candidate for sedation dentistry?

Dr. Murray takes note of your physical and mental health when deciding if you should use sedation during your dental work. You might need special approval from your physician if you have certain health conditions like hypertension, cardiac disease, or diabetes. 

Dr. Murray completed her master's degree in health and human services and counseling, which helps her manage dental anxieties. 

Murray Family Dental also offers weighted blankets, aromatherapy, paraffin hand wax, and various ergonomic pillows to help patients relax. They also recommend patients bring headphones, sunglasses, or any other items that will help them feel more comfortable.

You should explore your choices for sedation dentistry if:

  • You have a reactive gag reflex
  • You can’t sit still
  • Your neck or back issues make it hard to stay in position for dental work
  • Going to the dentist makes you nervous

Dr. Murray at Murray Family Dental will give you full details of your options for sedation before the date of your procedure. If you’re not a good candidate for a certain type, they help you find one that will work.

Going to the dentist shouldn’t be frightening or uncomfortable. To learn more about sedation dentistry, call Murray Family Dental or schedule a consultation online today.