No More Dental Jitters: What Is Sedation Dentistry in Columbia, SC?

Roughly 1 in 3 people in the Columbia, SC area suffers from some form of dental fear and anxiety (DFA).

That number climbed to as high as 36% of the population in 2013, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), but has since dropped to 31%, per more recent data shared by the NIH in 2021. 

But let’s be honest — that number is likely much higher than we think.

So, what exactly is dental fear and anxiety? 

If you've ever felt your heart racing while sitting in a dental lobby, or postponed necessary dental work because the very idea of sitting in a dentist’s chair makes you cringe, then you know exactly what DFA is. 

It can range from mild uneasiness to full-on panic mode — just at the thought of a dental visit. 

Some patients worry about pain, the risks involved and/or potential complications, while others grow anxious about the sounds, smells and the general feeling of being vulnerable during treatment.

Those with severe cases of DFA may avoid dental appointments altogether — even when needed. 

So, what exactly are dentists doing about it? 

Especially since, according to the NIH, roughly 16% of adults suffer from either high or severe DFA. 

The good news is most dentists understand this challenge and have developed numerous approaches to help patients feel more comfortable and relaxed during their visits — including sedation dentistry. 

Sedation Dentistry: What Is It & Why Does It Matter? 

Sedation dentistry is quickly becoming one of the most effective treatments for dental fear and anxiety. 

As the name suggests, sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to sedate patients during a dental procedure — ultimately helping the patient feel more calm, relaxed and at ease. 

The goal isn’t to knock you out — though that’s an option for some patients. 

Instead, it’s designed to create a state of short-term amnesia and insensitivity to pain without losing consciousness. Patients are still awake during the procedure, but they often won’t remember much of it. 

Most dentists utilize one of four different types of sedation during a dental procedure: 

• Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, which is inhaled through a mask or nosepiece. 
• Oral conscious sedation, which is commonly available in pill form and taken orally. 
• Intravenous (IV) sedation, which is administered directly into the bloodstream via an IV line.
• General anesthesia, which is generally reserved for more severe cases and major surgeries.

Here at Soda City Dentistry Dr. Rob Guerriero specializes in oral sedation only. From consultation through recovery, his incredible team will be by your side to answer any questions you have along the way! 

Reasons Why Patients Choose Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a trend that’s here to stay — and it’s easy to see why. 

For starters, and as discussed in the intro, sedation dentistry is one of the best ways to ensure patients struggling with dental fear and anxiety get the treatment they need (if medical) and/or want (if cosmetic). 

It’s also a preferred option for people with medical conditions that prevent them from sitting still, such as Tourette syndrome and Parkinson’s disease. 

Here are some of the other primary reasons why patients consider sedation dentistry: 

• Previous traumatic experience(s) at the dentist
• Fear of pain during the procedure
• Anxiety about the dental environment
• Embarrassment or shame over teeth health or appearance
• Complex, invasive procedures that might take a long time
• Sensitive gag reflex that makes routine cleanings difficult
• Inability to get numb with local anesthesia (lidocaine resistance)
• Claustrophobia or panic attacks in medical settings
• Multiple procedures being done in one appointment

If you've been putting off dental care, sedation dentistry is the key to getting back on track.

It’s not about being “weak” or “dramatic” — it’s about finding a solution that works for you (and only you) and giving you the dental experience you’ve always dreamed of. After all, your dentist is only here to help!

What to Expect From Sedation Dentistry

So, you've decided to give sedation dentistry a try — but what happens next?

First, you'll meet with Dr. Rob Guerriero to discuss your dental goals and options, go over your medical history and any medications you’re currently taking, and any concerns you might have about sedation.

Your dentist will also give you a list of pre-operative instructions to follow. 

For example, you might need to avoid eating or drinking for a certain amount of time leading up to your appointment, and might be directed to stop taking certain medication at least 72 hours before surgery.

Here’s what patients can expect on the day of their sedation dentistry appointment: 

• If taking oral sedation, then you’ll take the pill at home before arriving to your appointment
• Our team monitors your vital signs throughout the appointment
• You'll be awake, conscious and able to respond to simple requests
• At the same time, you won’t feel any pain and will be in a relaxed state
• Your dentist will complete the dental procedure
• You'll spend some time in the recovery area while the sedation wears off
• Your designated driver (friend or family member) will take you home

Don't be surprised if you have little to no memory of your procedure. 

This is completely normal and one of the many benefits of sedation dentistry — after all, no traumatic memories means no new fears or anxiety to worry about for your next visit.

By the time you get home, you’ll gradually start feeling more alert and more like yourself. 

Recovering From Sedation Dentistry

Most patients will feel fine after a few hours, but full recovery will take at least one day for most patients. 

Recovering from oral sedation often takes the full 24 hours (if not more). 

Dr. Rob Guerriero recommends taking it easy for at least one day after the procedure. That means no driving, no operating machinery and no strenuous or stressful activities.  

Here are a few other things you should know about the recovery process: 

• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours (or longer, depending on sedation type)
• Don't make any important decisions or sign legal documents for 24 hours
• Stay hydrated, but avoid using straws if you've had extractions or oral surgery
• Expect some grogginess or "fuzzy" feeling - this is completely normal
• Contact the office immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms

You can eat and drink right away, but Dr. Guerriero recommends starting with something light. 

And most patients can return to work and normal activities the next day, but we might recommend taking an extra day or two off for those who undergo complex procedures, such as wisdom tooth extraction. 

Soda City Dentistry: Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Does the thought of the dentist make your entire body tense with fear? Are you tired of canceling dental appointments at the last minute? Are fear and anxiety keeping you from the healthy smile you deserve?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions above, then you’ve come to the right place. 

Welcome to Soda City Dentistry. 

Our team understands that dental fear is real, valid and more common than most people think. But we're not here to judge or embarrass our patients over their anxiety — we're here to help them overcome it.

And we’ve seen plenty of our patients overcome it over the years!

Ready to finally get the dental care you need without the fear and anxiety? Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (803)-794-5430 or book your first consultation with Dr. Rob Guerriero online. You won’t regret it!