You are not alone if the thought of going to the dentist makes your heart race. Dental anxiety is extremely common, and for many people in Covington, it is the main reason they delay or avoid care altogether. Fear may come from an experience, concern about discomfort, or simply feeling uneasy about being in the chair. Sedation dentistry at Cornerstone Dentistry is designed to help patients feel calmer and more at ease so they can move forward with the care their smile needs without overwhelming stress.

You’re Not Alone: Dental Anxiety Is Very Common

Avoiding the dentist due to fear can slowly allow small dental problems to grow into more serious issues. When routine visits are delayed, cavities may deepen, gum disease can progress quietly, broken teeth can worsen, and pain often becomes more intense and harder to ignore. Sedation dentistry helps reduce this fear barrier so treatment can happen earlier, when it is often simpler and more manageable. Many patients are surprised by how different their dental experience feels once anxiety is under control.

Signs You May Benefit From Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is not only for extreme fear. You may be a good candidate if you feel nervous before visits, struggle with a strong gag reflex, have difficulty sitting still for longer procedures, need multiple treatments in one visit, or have had trouble getting comfortably numb in the past. Some patients also avoid scheduling altogether due to worry. If any of these sound familiar, sedation may help make your appointments feel calmer and more manageable.

What Is Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry uses safe, calming medication to help patients relax during dental treatment. You remain awake and able to respond, but your body feels more at ease, and your awareness of time and surroundings is reduced. Sedation works alongside local numbing, not in place of it. The numbing keeps the treatment area comfortable, while sedation helps reduce fear, tension, and sensitivity throughout the visit.

Overview of the Different Types of Sedation We Offer

Cornerstone Dentistry provides gentle forms of conscious sedation, including: 

• Nitrous oxide: Often called laughing gas, this gas is inhaled through a small mask and works within minutes. 
• Oral sedation: This involves taking a prescribed pill before your appointment to promote deeper relaxation.

Types of Sedation Dentistry Available in Covington

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is a mild, fast-acting sedation option. Once the small mask is placed over the nose, within a few minutes, many patients begin to feel relaxed and calm. One of its biggest benefits is that the effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed. Most patients can safely drive themselves home after their visit and return to their normal routine.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation provides deeper relaxation than nitrous oxide and is often recommended for patients with moderate to severe anxiety or for longer appointments. You will feel drowsy and very calm, though still awake. Because the effects last longer, you will need a trusted driver to take you home after your visit.

When We Recommend Each Option

Nitrous oxide may be suggested for mild anxiety, shorter procedures, or patients who want a quick recovery. Oral sedation is often chosen for stronger fears, longer treatment sessions, or for patients who prefer a deeper level of relaxation. Dr. Keleigh Lascari, DDS, will help guide this decision based on your comfort needs and treatment plan.

How Sedation Dentistry Makes Visits Easier

Sedation helps quiet racing thoughts, reduce the gag reflex, ease muscle tension, and improve overall calm and comfort during treatment. This can be especially helpful for patients with sensitive teeth or past negative dental experiences. 

Sedation may allow Dr. Keleigh Lascari to provide more care in fewer appointments. Many patients appreciate being able to address several needs in one visit rather than returning multiple times.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe

Sedation dentistry is considered very safe when administered by trained professionals using proper protocols. Throughout your appointment, our Cornerstone Dentistry team carefully monitors your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and overall comfort. Before recommending any form of sedation, your dentist reviews your medical history to determine which option is appropriate for you. 

What to Expect Before, During, and After Sedation

Before your appointment, you will receive specific instructions based on the type of sedation being used. These instructions may include when to take prescribed medication, whether you should avoid eating or drinking beforehand, what to wear for comfort, and what to bring with you. Patients receiving oral sedation will need to arrange for a driver in advance.

On the day of your visit to Cornerstone Dentistry, the team will help you get settled and begin your chosen sedation method. During treatment, you will feel relaxed and calm, and many patients report that the appointment seems to pass quickly. After your procedure, nitrous oxide wears off within minutes, while oral sedation requires additional recovery time. You will rest briefly in the office and then head home with your driver. Most patients feel back to normal later the same day.

Take the First Step Toward Comfortable Dental Visits

You do not have to let anxiety control your oral health. Sedation dentistry in Covington can help make your appointments calmer, more comfortable, and far less intimidating. If even scheduling a visit feels overwhelming, the team at Cornerstone Dentistry is ready to listen without judgment. By talking openly about your fears and goals, together you can choose a sedation option that helps you feel safe, confident, and supported as you move forward with the care your smile deserves.

Schedule your appointment at Cornerstone Dentistry today, and experience comfort-focused dental care!

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions. Your results may vary.