Dental anxiety is more common than most people realize — and it is one of the main reasons people delay the care their teeth and gums need. At Hawkins Dentistry in Marysville, Ohio, Dr. Kent Hawkins understands this completely. That is why we offer sedation dentistry options to help patients feel calm, comfortable, and fully at ease during their visits — whether you are coming in for a routine cleaning or a more involved procedure. We believe everyone deserves quality dental care, and we will not let anxiety stand in the way of that. We serve patients from Marysville, Dublin, and Plain City, Ohio.
Why Some Patients Need Sedation
Fear of dental procedures is real, and it affects people across all ages and backgrounds. Some patients have had a difficult experience in the past. Others feel overwhelmed by sounds, sensations, or the feeling of being in a dental chair. Still others simply have a strong gag reflex that makes dental care uncomfortable. Whatever your reason for feeling anxious, we take it seriously and have options to help.
Sedation dentistry is also helpful for patients who need extensive dental work completed and prefer to minimize the number of appointments required. With sedation, Dr. Kent Hawkins can often accomplish more in a single visit.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide — commonly called laughing gas — is the most widely used form of dental sedation. It is administered through a small mask worn over the nose and takes effect within a few minutes. You remain completely awake and aware but feel noticeably relaxed, with reduced anxiety and a dulled sense of discomfort. The gag reflex is also reduced under nitrous oxide, which many patients find beneficial.
One of the biggest advantages of nitrous oxide is how quickly it wears off. Once the mask is removed, the effects dissipate within minutes, and most patients can drive themselves home after the appointment. Dr. Kent Hawkins can adjust the level of sedation in real time to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication — typically in pill form — one hour before your appointment. The medication produces a moderate level of relaxation and drowsiness. Most patients remain awake but feel deeply calm, and many have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.
Because the sedative effects last longer than nitrous oxide, you will need a trusted adult to drive you to and from your appointment. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Dr. Kent Hawkins will provide specific instructions based on the medication prescribed and the nature of your procedure.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes. When administered by a trained dental professional who has reviewed your medical history and current medications, sedation dentistry is a safe and well-established practice. Dr. Kent Hawkins carefully evaluates each patient’s health history before recommending a sedation option and monitors your comfort throughout the procedure. Your safety is always the first priority.
What to Expect at Your Sedation Appointment
Before your appointment, Dr. Kent Hawkins will review your health history and discuss your anxiety or concerns. On the day of your visit, the sedation is administered as discussed, and our team will monitor you carefully throughout. We create a calm, unhurried environment — because we want every patient at Hawkins Dentistry to feel genuinely welcomed and cared for, not just treated.
