IV Sedation & Anesthesia in Cookeville, TN

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Anesthesia and sedation are medical treatments that prevent you from feeling pain and discomfort during oral surgery. The method of anesthesia chosen depends on the nature of your surgical procedure and your level of comfort.

We offer multiple levels of sedation to ensure that each patient receives personalized care. Before your procedure, we will discuss your comfort level and any concerns to determine the best sedation option for you.

All of our oral surgeons have completed extensive hospital-based anesthesia training and are fully licensed by the state dental board to administer IV sedation and general anesthesia in our office.

You remain fully conscious while the surgical area is numbed with a local anesthetic such as lidocaine. Used for simple procedures like minor soft tissue work and straightforward tooth extractions. Local anesthetic is also used in conjunction with all other sedation methods.

A mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is administered through a nasal breathing apparatus. You remain conscious but deeply relaxed with reduced anxiety and pain sensitivity. The effects wear off quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home after your appointment.

Medications are administered through an intravenous line, allowing you to drift into a comfortable twilight sleep. You will be completely unaware of the procedure being performed. Your vital signs and oxygen levels are closely monitored throughout.

Extreme fear or anxiety about dental procedures

Previously traumatic dental experiences

Difficulty getting numb with local anesthetic alone

Sensitive or overactive gag reflex

Extensive or multiple procedures planned

Restlessness during dental procedures

Fear of needles or dental instruments

TMJ pain or difficulty keeping mouth open

Negative responses to dental office environments

Safety & Your Comfort

To administer IV sedation in our office, our oral surgeons have completed a hospital-based oral surgery residency of 4-6 years that includes hospital-based anesthesia training. Each surgeon undergoes an in-office evaluation where all monitoring devices and emergency equipment are evaluated for compliance.

Our anesthesia license is renewed every two years, requiring continued yearly education in the latest anesthesia safety protocols. Additionally, our doctors are members of AAOMS, which requires anesthesia recertification (OBEAM) every 5-years.

Your safety is always our first priority. If you have any concerns about the type of anesthesia for your procedure, please discuss them with your surgeon during your consultation.