Brockley Dental Blog, Dental Implants, Family Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry in Pittsburgh, PA

Sedation Dentistry in Pittsburgh, PA Brockley Dental Center

Did you know that many people, possibly even someone you know, might be avoiding the dentist because of anxiety? It’s more common than you’d think—it’s estimated that 36% of people in the US have some fear of dental treatment. Of that group, 12% have extreme fear, and 3% have dentophobia and won’t see a dentist at all. Brockley Dental Center provides sedation dentistry options to guarantee the comfort of individuals in the greater Pittsburgh area who may experience anxiety when visiting the dentist or undergoing dental procedures.

Breaking Down the Basics

Sedation Dentistry in Pittsburgh, PA Brockley Dental CenterSo, what is sedation dentistry? Simply put, it’s the use of sedatives to make dental procedures relaxing and pain-free. Unlike general anesthesia you might find in a hospital, with sedation dentistry, the patient remains awake during the procedure, but their anxiety melts away. Think of it like draping yourself in a warm, calming blanket, making the dental experience much smoother and more comfortable.

The reasons someone might opt for sedation dentistry in Pittsburgh are varied. Maybe they have a deep-seated fear of dental tools, needles, and blood, or perhaps sitting still for an extended period feels impossible. Some might have an extremely sensitive gag reflex or feel claustrophobic just being in the dental chair. Whatever the reasons that cause anxiety, our caring and compassionate team at Brockley Dental Center will do everything we can to make you as comfortable as possible, no matter the procedure.

Types of Sedation Dentistry in Pittsburgh

At our clinic, we have a couple of options for sedation dentistry to choose from to help with dental anxiety:

  1. Nitrous oxide: Often known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is inhaled and begins working in minutes. Contrary to its name, it doesn’t actually induce a laughing fit but rather slows down your nervous system to help you feel tranquil and relaxed. Post-procedure, it exits the system quickly, enabling you to drive home independently.
  2. Conscious oral sedation: This involves taking a pill about an hour before the procedure. It might make you feel so relaxed that you doze off, but don’t worry; we will gently wake you when your treatment is over. With conscious oral sedation, we can usually complete your procedure in one or two visits, depending on how complicated it is. Due to the lingering effects of this type of sedation, you’ll need a ride home afterward.
  3. Dental therapy dogs: For those who need a furry friend’s assistance, our emotional support dogs, Penny and Prudence, are at your service. They work wonders, especially for kids!

Why Consider Sedation Dentistry in Pittsburgh?

Aside from allowing you to feel more relaxed at the dentist, there are plenty of reasons for Pittsburgh residents to consider sedation dentistry. For starters, it’s efficient—the calmer you are, the quicker the procedure can be completed. Plus, if the mere thought of the dentist has kept you far away from the office for many years, sedation dentistry can help you finally get the treatment you’ve been putting off.

Sedation can be very helpful for those with a tricky gag reflex, difficulty sitting still, or feelings of claustrophobia in the dental chair. Dr. Brockley has been specially trained in sedation dentistry since 1996, so you know you’re in the hands of an expert.

Cost and Financing Concerns

At Brockley Dental Center, we know that dental procedures can cause financial concerns. But here’s the thing: your health is an investment. Pushing away necessary treatments now could cause an even worse problem to surface in the long run. We believe affordable dental care should be available to all. That’s why we’ll review your insurance plan, so you know exactly what procedures and services are covered.

We’ve also partnered with financing companies like CareCredit to offer short- and long-term financing options with interest rates that will work for you. No matter your budget, we want to help you get the dental care you need.

Your Next Step

If the thought of the dentist makes your heart race, it’s time to consider sedation dentistry in Pittsburgh. Imagine being able to address your dental health without the shadow of anxiety looming over you! From routine check-ups to dental implants and tooth extractions, you deserve a stress-free experience. Our experienced team is ready to guide you and ensure that your visit is pleasant.

If you’re ready for a change, call us today to schedule your free consultation and discover how these life-changing accommodations can reshape your dental experience.

Donald B. Brockley, DMD

Dr. Brockley earned his doctorate degree in Dental Medicine from the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine in 1972. He is a second generation dentist and a legacy of the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine where his father, Dr. Charles R. Brockley earned his doctorate in general dentistry in the year 1927. While attending the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine, he held the office of Class Secretary for his graduating class. Following dental school, he chose to do his residency training at Wilmington Medical Center in Wilmington, Delaware, with a focus on research. Upon completing his residency, Dr. Brockley enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War Era as a Naval Officer. Dr. Brockley opened his own private practice 1975 in Butler, PA a historic town just 34 miles north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dr. Brockley held the office of President of the Butler County Dental Society. After many years of practice, Dr. Brockley realized that fear is the #1 reason why people do not visit their dentist regularly. Therefore, he made it his mission to find an alternative way to practice (and to help his patients overcome this fear). This alternative was through Sedation Dentistry. In 1996 he became trained in Conscious Oral Sedation. This technique allowed him to treat fearful patients by gently putting them to sleep with the aid of a pill, not needle IV sedation which was the popular treatment at that time. Dr. Brockley received his dental training at the following institutions: University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA Tufts University, School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA University of North Carolina, School of Dentistry, Raleigh, NC Mini Dental Implant Training Centre, Buffalo, NY. Due to the high number of patients who are diabetic in his practice, his next goal was to understand the impact of Diabetes in Dentistry. Due to the subset of Diabetic patients in his practice who had similar recurring oral and systemic health problems, special attention became warranted. This led to a different standard of care and treatment for patients whose health was compromised by diabetes. Early detection, observation, evaluation and treatment to eradicate infection plays a major role in maintaining oral health for diabetic patients. Poorly managed treatment for diabetic patients has been shown to lead to a higher risk of uncontrolled gum disease and vice versa, making prevention of gum disease the #1 priority for this subset of patients. Dr. Brockley’s research on dentistry for diabetics led him to his next specialization: the treatment and eradication of gum disease. His aim has been to change the the treatment of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. For this reason, he designed a radically different protocol to the Soft Tissue Management (STM) program. STM treats the symptoms of gum disease, and more importantly, the underlying cause of gum disease, bacteria. Studies have shown that gum disease affects 80% of American adults. However, Dr. Brockley has observed that more than 90% of his baby boomer patients have gum disease. His unique STM protocol has shown significant success within his patient population. With patient knowledge, understanding, and cooperation, Dr. Brockley is able to arrest and manage gum disease in his practice. After perfecting his procedures for crowns, bridges, partials and dentures to replace missing teeth, the introduction of Small Diameter Implants (also known as SDI or Mini Dental Implants) into his practice has revolutionized the way Dr. Brockley practices cosmetic dentistry. Small Diameter Implants provide the possibility of full mouth restoration, multiple teeth restoration, or single tooth restoration. Small Diameter Implants can be implemented in all types of tooth and bone conditions, in all ages, and in all types of health conditions. Dr. Brockley uses Small Diameter Implants to restore chewing ability and create beautiful smiles, which ultimately changes peoples’ lives. Dr. Brockley is the proud owner and operator of the first Mini Dental Implant Center of America in the Greater Pittsburgh area. Dr. Brockley has achieved Diplomate status in the International Academy of Mini Dental Implants. He is the President Emeritus of the Butler County Dental Society. Dr. Brockley was also a Lieutenant in the US Navel Dental Core. He is a a lifetime member of the Delta Sigma Dental Fraternity, and he was the Class Secretary for the University of Pittsburgh Dental School. Dr. Brockley likes to spend time with his family at home or while traveling, has been an avid scuba diver since 1980, and describes himself as a “just okay” golfer.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *