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Sedation Dentistry in Wilton, CT

For many people, dental anxiety stands between them and the healthy smile they deserve. At The Center for Complete Health Dentistry at Wilton, Dr. Walter Kostrzewski understands that fear of the dentist is real—and he’s committed to making your dental experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Through advanced sedation dentistry techniques, we help anxious patients receive the care they need in a calm, relaxed state.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Often called “sleep dentistry,” it allows you to remain comfortable and calm throughout your treatment, even if you’re undergoing extensive dental work. Depending on the level of sedation used, you may feel deeply relaxed while remaining conscious, or you may have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.

Dr. Kostrzewski is trained in multiple sedation techniques and will carefully evaluate your medical history, anxiety level, and treatment needs to recommend the most appropriate option. Our goal is to transform your dental experience from something you dread into something you can handle with ease and confidence.

Anxious patient experiencing dental fear, sedation dentistry options available to help nervous patients relax at The Center for Complete Healthy Dentistry in Wilton, CT

Reasons for Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry isn’t just for people with severe dental phobias. Many patients benefit from sedation for various reasons:

Dental Anxiety or Fear

  • Past traumatic dental experiences
  • General anxiety about dental visits
  • Fear of needles or dental instruments

Physical Considerations

  • Strong gag reflex that interferes with treatment
  • Difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia
  • Jaw pain or TMJ issues that make keeping your mouth open uncomfortable
  • Physical disabilities that make sitting still challenging

Treatment Factors

  • Lengthy or complex procedures
  • Multiple treatments in a single visit
  • Sensitive teeth or gums

If any of these situations sound familiar, sedation dentistry could help you finally get the dental care you’ve been putting off.

Types of Sedation

Dr. Kostrzewski offers several levels of sedation to match your specific needs and comfort level:

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

The mildest form of sedation, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask and creates a feeling of relaxation and well-being. You remain fully conscious and aware, and the effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed.

Oral Sedation

With oral sedation, you take a prescribed medication before your appointment. This creates a deeper level of relaxation than nitrous oxide. While you’ll remain awake and able to respond to Dr. Kostrzewski’s instructions, you’ll feel drowsy and may have limited memory of the procedure. Oral sedation is an excellent option for moderate anxiety.

Nitrous Oxide vs Oral Sedation

Choosing between nitrous oxide and oral sedation depends on several factors, including your anxiety level, the complexity of your procedure, and your personal preferences.

Oral Sedation Benefits:

  • Quick onset—you’ll feel relaxed within minutes
  • Effects wear off rapidly, allowing you to drive yourself home
  • Adjustable levels throughout your procedure for optimal comfort
  • No needles or pills required
  • Ideal for mild to moderate anxiety
  • Safe for both children and adults

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Benefits:

  • Easy to take—just swallow a pill before your appointment
  • No mask or equipment needed during treatment
  • Provides deeper relaxation for moderate to severe anxiety
  • Effective for longer or more complex procedures
  • Minimal memory of the treatment
  • Better option for patients with strong gag reflexes

Dr. Kostrzewski will discuss both options with you and recommend the approach that best suits your individual situation. Your comfort and safety are always our top priorities.Retry

Sedation Dentistry FAQ

Yes, when administered by a trained dentist like Dr. Kostrzewski. We carefully monitor your vital signs throughout your procedure and adjust sedation levels as needed to ensure your safety.

Not with the sedation options we offer. You’ll remain conscious and able to respond, though with deeper sedation, you may not remember much about your visit.

Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes. Oral sedation effects typically last several hours, so you’ll need someone to drive you home.

Most patients are good candidates for sedation, but Dr. Kostrzewski will review your medical history to ensure it’s safe for you. Certain health conditions may require special considerations.

For oral sedation, yes. You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment and stay with you until the sedation fully wears off.

Pricing and Insurance

While sedation dentistry represents an additional investment in your comfort, many patients find the benefits—finally receiving necessary dental care, overcoming years of anxiety, and experiencing stress-free treatment—far outweigh the cost. Some dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for sedation when medically necessary. Our team will work with you to understand your coverage and explore payment options that make comfortable dental care accessible.

Calming and modern reception area with comfortable seating at The Center for Complete Healthy Dentistry, offering sedation dentistry for anxious patients in Wilton, CT

Call to Schedule an Appointment Today

You don’t have to let fear keep you from a healthy smile any longer. Dr. Walter Kostrzewski and our compassionate team at The Center for Complete Health Dentistry at Wilton are here to help you feel comfortable, safe, and cared for throughout your dental experience.

Call us today at 203-762-5800 to learn more about sedation dentistry options and schedule your anxiety-free appointment.

Schedule An Appointment