Woman under sedation at the dentist office

Sedation Dentistry

Are you in need of a dental procedure, but just the thought of seeing a dentist causes your heart to race?

Dental anxiety can lead to missed appointments and delayed treatments that can severely affect your oral health.

Dr. Timothy M. Kelly in Albuquerque, NM, offers sedation dentistry to put your anxiety at ease while maintaining your oral health.

Dental Anxiety Has Many Potential Causes

Fear of the dentist is a very common form of anxiety that can cause patients to postpone crucial dental cleanings or procedures for years. This can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other severe oral health issues. Dental anxiety can occur for many different reasons. Your dental fear could stem from claustrophobia, embarrassment, or a strong gag reflex. All of which can make it difficult to go to the dentist.

Do You Fear the Dentist? You're Not Alone

It is estimated that 36 percent of the population is affected by dental fear and 12 percent suffer from extreme dental fear. — PMC 2014

Am I a Good Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?

Most patients who fear the dentist can benefit from sedation dentistry.

You may be a good candidate if your fear causes you to:

The Benefits Of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry allows our patients to be at ease throughout their entire dentistry procedure.

Prevent Oral Health Issues Call Our Albuquerque, NM, Practice Today

The goal of Dr. Kelly and everyone at our Albuquerque, NM, office is to create and maintain healthy, pain-free smiles. Your oral health can affect your overall quality of life. Cavities, missing teeth, gum disease, and other issues caused by delaying dental appointments can make daily activities like chewing and speaking difficult.

Call our Albuquerque, NM, office to learn more about sedation dentistry if your dental fear is stopping you from necessary oral care. Or leave us a message and we will get back to you.

505-256-1770

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Dr. Kelly with patient — Dr. Kelly has been practicing dentistry in his hometown of Albuquerque for more than 40 years.

We Create Fearless Smiles 5-Star Reviews From Our Happy Patients

I always used to get really scared and anxious when it came to dentists. Dr. Kelly and his entire staff have changed that forever. Everyone is so genuinely welcoming and professional it is hard to believe I am in a dentist office. I highly recommend you come give them a shot, they are sure to win you over! Thank you Dr. Kelly, Lori & Melissa! (Oh And the nice new girl I can’t remember her name)

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I was terrified of the dentist and so avoided it for many years until I couldn't ignore it any longer. I am so glad I found Dr. Kelly. He and his staff are so kind and so good at what they do. They don't make me feel silly about my anxiety surrounding dental work. Also, I feel no pain, even when having very old fillings and cavities removed. I highly recommend this practice.

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The Types Of Sedation

Our Albuquerque, NM, office offers two types of sedation: nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. Both forms are safe, gentle, and highly effective.

Nitrous Oxide

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a well-known and conservative sedation option that is delivered through a mask. Your body will respond quickly, and you will enter a state of deep relaxation or even mild euphoria. You may experience a tingling sensation in your limbs, be a bit more talkative, or a bit giggly — hence the name laughing gas — after receiving nitrous oxide. Once your treatment is complete, the medication will wear off quickly, and you will be able to drive home and perform the rest of your daily activities.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral sedation may be a good option if you have severe anxiety. Oral sedation is a pill prescribed by our dentist for you to take before your dental care. Typically, you will take one dose at home and another when you arrive for your dental appointment. Your dose will depend on your needs and the severity of your dental fear. While under oral sedation, you will be able to answer questions throughout your procedure but will remain deeply relaxed. If you choose this form of sedation, you will need a friend or family member available to drive you to and from your dentistry appointment.

The Sedation Process

Call our Albuquerque, NM, office to request your consultation and learn more about our sedation dentistry options.

"Through sedation dentistry, patients can achieve a healthy smile in a relaxed environment."

Day of Procedure

"Through sedation dentistry, patients can achieve a healthy smile in a relaxed environment."

Consultation

Before undergoing any sedation, you will meet with our dentist to discuss your medical history, dental care needs, and dental fears. You must be open with your dentist about current medications so he can determine which option will be the safest while still meeting your anxiety-relieving goals.

Choosing Sedation

It can be overwhelming trying to decide which sedation option is best for you and your dental anxiety. After thoroughly reviewing your dentistry needs at your consultation, our dentist will put together a treatment plan that includes the type and dose of sedation and the dental procedures that will create a healthy, beautiful smile.

Arranging Transportation

If our dentist decides oral sedation is the best option, you will need to have a friend or family member drive you to and from your appointment. Operating a vehicle after oral conscious sedation is unsafe for you and others on the road.

Follow Instructions

Generally, oral sedation must be taken at home and just before your dental appointment. You will need to follow Dr. Kelly's instructions on when to take the pill and what to take it with to ensure its efficacy.

Relax

Whether you are receiving nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation, once you are at your dental appointment you can expect to be relaxed throughout your entire visit. And when you leave, you'll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your teeth and gums are healthier than when you arrived.

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Sedation Dentistry Can Save You Money By Maintaining Good Oral Health

If your fear of the dentist has caused you to delay treatments or routine cleanings, we encourage you to learn about sedation with our Albuquerque practice. Postponing treatments puts you at risk for developing serious oral health issues that require extensive and expensive dental care. Some insurances may cover part of the cost of sedation and our friendly team would be happy to look into that for you. If out-of-pocket costs are an obstacle, we also accept financing through LendingPoint™.

Contact Our Office To Learn More

More 5-Star Reviews From Our Smiling Patients

Dr. Kelly and his staff are totally awesome !!!! I had two front crowns done recently and I was very nervous about the procedure and the outcome but Dr. Kelly and his staff did such a wonderful job making me feel comfortable . Dr. Kelly makes his crowns in house so they were very into every detail and I got it all done in one day I didn't have to go back for a crown delivery. The final result was I ended up with two beautiful crowns. I highly recommend Dr. Kelly for anybody that has any anxieties about going to the dentist.

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I am one very happy customer!!! In the past we have driven to a different town for good dental service, it’s extremely important to us! Dr. Kelly is a wonderful, kind, talented, and mellow dentist. I cannot overstate my appreciation for his immaculate office and caring, professional staff. I also appreciate that for every procedure we have needed so far, Dr. Kelly is able to handle it! No outsourcing and constant referrals! Thank you for our family’s healthy, happy teeth!

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