The short answer: Foundation Implants & Periodontics offers two levels of comfort care: local anesthesia, used for virtually every procedure, and oral sedation, a prescription sedative taken before the appointment for patients who feel anxious. Dr. Cherry recommends the level based on your procedure, your medical history and how you feel about treatment.
Comfortable Care with Sedation Options
We understand that dental procedures, especially surgical ones, can cause anxiety. At Foundation Implants & Periodontics, we offer sedation options to help you stay comfortable and relaxed throughout your treatment. Dr. Cherry will recommend the most appropriate level of sedation based on your procedure, medical history, and personal comfort level.
Our Sedation Options
Local Anesthesia
Used for virtually all periodontal procedures, local anesthesia numbs the specific area being treated. You remain fully awake and alert but feel no pain at the treatment site. This is the baseline level of comfort for all procedures.
Oral Sedation
A prescription sedative taken before your appointment produces a state of deep relaxation. You remain conscious and able to respond to instructions, but most patients feel drowsy and have little memory of the procedure. Oral sedation is ideal for patients with mild to moderate anxiety.
Deeper levels of sedation carry more risk, so care here is provided with local anesthesia, with oral sedation for patients who want help relaxing.
Which Option Is Right for You?
- Mild anxiety or short procedures: Local anesthesia alone is often sufficient
- Moderate anxiety: Oral sedation provides reliable relaxation with minimal preparation
- Significant anxiety: Talk it through with Dr. Cherry at your consultation, so the plan, the timing and the sedation are set up around you
Safety and Monitoring
Your safety is our top priority. During any sedation procedure, we continuously monitor your vital signs including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Our team is trained in advanced life support protocols. Before recommending sedation, Dr. Cherry reviews your complete medical history, current medications, and any relevant health conditions.
Important Guidelines
- If receiving oral sedation, do not eat or drink for 8 hours before your appointment
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment
- Wear comfortable clothing with short sleeves
- Plan to rest for the remainder of the day following your procedure
If you have questions about sedation options or concerns about comfort during treatment, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with our team. Contact Foundation Implants & Periodontics to learn more.