Experience Anxiety-Free Dental Care in a Welcoming Environment
Are you worried about your trip to the dentist? Does the idea of sitting in a dentist’s chair make you feel nervous? Do you postpone dental cleanings and checkups because of your anxiety or stress? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then our caring Ithaca dentist and staff at Ambis Dental can help.
Nestled on a quiet street in a residential area of Ithaca, our practice has been a cornerstone of dental care in the community for over four decades. Dr. Edward Ambis and our experienced team understand that dental anxiety can be a significant barrier to maintaining optimal oral health. That’s why we’ve perfected the art of sedation dentistry, ensuring that even the most anxious patients can receive the care they need in a relaxed, stress-free environment.
To schedule an appointment with our Ithaca dentist, contact us today at 607-272-1874.
Why Choose Ambis Dental for Sedation Dentistry
At Ambis Dental, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful smile – without the stress. Dr. Edward Ambis brings over 40 years of expertise to every patient interaction, combining his extensive dental knowledge with a master’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. As a member of the American Dental Association and a fellow at the Resnik Implant Institute, Dr. Ambis is at the forefront of modern dentistry, ensuring you receive the most advanced and comfortable care possible.
Our commitment to your comfort extends beyond sedation dentistry. From our tranquil office setting to our compassionate staff, every aspect of your visit is designed to put you at ease. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including dental implants, TMJ treatment, cosmetic dentistry, and periodontal care, all delivered with the same attention to your comfort and well-being.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, is a specialized approach that uses medications to help patients relax during dental treatment. At Ambis Dental, we understand that dental anxiety can range from mild unease to severe phobia. Our sedation options are tailored to address various levels of anxiety, ensuring that every patient can receive necessary dental care comfortably. Whether you’re undergoing a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, sedation dentistry can transform your experience from stressful to serene.
How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?
Dr. Ambis and our team offer different levels of sedation to accommodate various patient needs and procedure types:
- Minimal Sedation: You remain awake but in a state of deep relaxation. This is typically achieved using nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas”. It’s perfect for patients with mild anxiety or those undergoing quick procedures.
- Moderate Sedation: Also known as conscious sedation, this level may cause you to slur your words and not remember much of the procedure. It’s often achieved through oral sedatives taken before your appointment. This option is ideal for patients with moderate anxiety or longer procedures.
- Deep Sedation: In this state, you’re on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened. It’s usually administered through intravenous (IV) medications, providing profound relaxation for those with severe anxiety or complex treatments.
Our experienced Ithaca dental team carefully assesses each patient to determine the most appropriate level of sedation, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your visit.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a safe, mild sedative inhaled through a small mask over your nose. It takes effect quickly, inducing a state of relaxation and mild euphoria. The effects wear off rapidly once the mask is removed, allowing you to drive yourself home after the procedure. This option is excellent for patients of all ages with mild anxiety.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescribed pill before your appointment. When you arrive at our dental office, you’ll feel deeply relaxed. While you’ll remain conscious and able to respond to commands, you might feel drowsy and may not remember much of the procedure. Oral sedation is particularly useful for patients with moderate anxiety or those undergoing longer, more complex procedures.
IV Sedation
Intravenous sedation delivers medication directly into your bloodstream, inducing a deep state of relaxation. This method allows Dr. Ambis to continually adjust the level of sedation throughout the procedure, ensuring optimal comfort. While you won’t be fully unconscious, you’ll be in deep relaxation and may not remember the procedure afterward. IV sedation dentistry is ideal for patients with severe dental anxiety or those undergoing extensive treatments.
General Anesthesia
Reserved for the most complex procedures or cases where patients must be completely unconscious, general anesthesia ensures you’re asleep throughout the entire procedure. An anesthesiologist administers the medication and closely monitors your vital signs. This type of sedation is typically used for oral surgeries or very lengthy treatments.
Local Anesthesia
While not a form of sedation, local anesthetic is often used in conjunction with sedation methods. It involves injecting a numbing medication into the treatment area, ensuring you don’t feel pain during the procedure. Our Ithaca dentist combines local anesthetics with sedation for a comprehensive comfort experience.
Benefits of Dental Sedation
Dental sedation at Ambis Dental offers a range of benefits:
- Anxiety Relief: Overcome dental fear and receive necessary treatments without stress.
- Pain Management: Experience minimal discomfort during and after procedures.
- Time Efficiency: Allow Dr. Ambis to perform complex procedures more efficiently, reducing the number of appointments needed.
- Minimal Memory: For those with dental phobias, having little to no memory of the procedure can be a significant relief.
- Gag Reflex Control: Sedation helps control sensitive gag reflexes, making procedures smoother.
- Comfort for Special Needs: Patients with special needs or difficulty sitting still can receive comfortable care.
- Complex Treatments: Undergo multiple or lengthy procedures in fewer visits.
Candidacy for Sedation Dentistry
While sedation dentistry benefits many, it may not be suitable for everyone. Our Ithaca dentist will carefully evaluate your candidacy, considering factors such as:
- Medical history and current health status
- Any allergies or adverse reactions to medications
- Pregnancy status
- Current medications and potential interactions
- The type and duration of the dental procedure
Patients with certain conditions like severe respiratory issues, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or specific heart problems may require special consideration. Rest assured, Dr. Ambis will thoroughly discuss all options and help determine the safest, most effective approach for your unique situation.
Safety and Monitoring
At Ambis Dental, your safety is paramount. Our team is highly trained in sedation techniques and emergency protocols. Throughout your procedure, we’ll use advanced monitoring equipment to track your vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Dr. Ambis and our staff continuously assess your comfort and sedation level, making adjustments as needed to ensure your well-being.
Sedation Dentistry Costs
The cost of sedation dentistry varies based on several factors:
- Type of sedation used
- Duration of the procedure
- Complexity of the treatment
While costs can range from $25 for nitrous oxide to $1,500 or more for IV sedation, we believe that comfort during dental procedures is invaluable. Our team will provide a detailed cost breakdown and discuss payment options to help make your comfortable dental experience affordable.