Sedation Dentistry In Raleigh
Dental phobia is a real, often overwhelming reality for thousands of people. Negative previous dental experiences, fear of needles or drills, and severe gag reflexes are just some of the reasons people feel extreme anxiety when thinking about visiting the dentist.
Sedation Dentistry
Our office offers our patients the option of a deeper form sedation for their dental treatment. This is what sets our office apart from other dental practices, and we find that it helps to alleviate any anxiety or fear that many patients have experienced in other practices. The doctors at Renaissance Dental Center have teamed up Dr. Dillon Atwood to provide this type of care. Dr. Atwood is one of only a few dental anesthesiologists in North Carolina. He works with Renaissance Dental Center to provide all levels of anesthesia to our patients. Patients may choose from a level of comfortable, relaxed sedation to a deep sleep through their dental treatment.
If you suffer from dental phobia- fear no more! At Renaissance Dental Center, we are committed to understanding the very real nature of your fears. Not only will our team treat you with delicacy and care, but a deeper level of anesthesia will allow you experience dentistry in a whole new way. While engaging in a pleasant sleep-like experience, the doctors at Renaissance Dental Center will be hard at work making sure you "wake up" with the results you desire.
Anna Abernethy, DDS
Dr. Abernethy, originally from Concord, North Carolina, moved to Raleigh for college and graduated from Meredith College in 2001 with a degree in biology and a minor in chemical physics. Her journey towards dentistry began unexpectedly when she experienced a dental emergency during her college years, leading her to explore the field through externship programs. Witnessing a patient's life-changing smile makeover after a car accident inspired her to become a dentist. She pursued her dental education at UNC-Chapel Hill Dental School, actively participating in various community service initiatives and events. After graduation, she gained valuable experience as an associate in a dental practice.
Jill Sonner, DDS
Dr. Sonner, a Raleigh native, completed her undergraduate studies at NCSU in Biological Sciences in 1999. She pursued dental education at UNC Dental School and trained at Fayetteville VA Medical Center, gaining skills in treating medically compromised and geriatric patients, and in advanced surgical techniques, including implant placement. She achieved Fellowship with The International Dental Implant Association, mentored by Dr. Arun Garg. Dr. Sonner, alongside Drs. Abernethy and Wells, took part in a mission to the Dominican Republic, contributing to dental implant surgeries, enhancing chewing function for locals who wouldn't otherwise have the chance. Their efforts significantly improved the quality of life for many recipients.
Anita Wells, DDS
Dr. Anita Wells, developed her passion for dentistry in her hometown of Pinehurst, inspired by her childhood dentist's compassionate and personalized care. From a young age, she was fascinated by his ability to transform lives through beautiful smiles. Observing his artistic skills and the positive impact he made on patients, she decided to pursue dentistry. Dr. Wells graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Chemistry, and later earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery with the highest honors. After practicing in Chapel Hill, she co-founded Renaissance Dental Center in 2009, aiming to provide personalized dental care based on her dedication to changing people's lives.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the act of any dental procedure (both surgical and non-surgical) that is performed with the patient under a certain level of sedation. Stronger doses can be administered as well as lower doses depending on the complication level of the procedure. The level of sedation can also depend on the amount of sedation the patient wants, some patients will prefer to be completely “asleep” during their appointment. The dental professional will work on every aspect of the patient's mouth and will be finished when the patient “wakes up”.
In the past, dental sedation was only used for large procedures such as root canals or major tooth extractions (surgical). In today’s time, sedation dentistry can even be used for a basic cleaning, simply to relieve stress and anxiety, as well as to numb the areas that will be worked on.
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Benefits Of Sedation Dentistry
When considering your dental options, you may be wondering what procedure is best for your particular circumstance. If you have compared the options of crowns and veneers, it’s important to note that these procedures differ in placement, purpose, and functionality.
Veneers: Veneers are thin shells, typically made of porcelain, that cover the front surface of your teeth to alter their color, size, and shape. They can hide signs of discoloration. However, they serve mostly as a cosmetic option rather than a restorative procedure.
Crowns: Patients who need a dental crown typically are interested in restoring both the appearance and functionality of their teeth. As opposed to veneers, crowns cover the all the surfaces of the tooth above the gum line, allowing for more effective chewing and biting when eating. The treatment does have cosmetic benefits, but the primary purpose is focused on the repair of damaged and/or decayed teeth.
It’s always best to discuss multiple treatment options with your dentist to assure you are choosing the correct procedure for your dental concern.
Different Types Of Sedation
The cost of a dental crown, much like any other dental procedure, differs based on your insurance plan. Cost of the treatment will also vary based on the type of material used to construct your crown. Before visiting your dentist, it would be helpful to check with your insurance company to review your coverage for crowns.
Knowing this information before going into your appointment will help both you and your dentist to determine what crown will fit best for your circumstance. You can also discuss financing options with your dental team if you are interested in a crown that is not covered or only partially covered by your insurance plan.
Dental crowns can dramatically change the lives of individuals with damaged teeth. By providing a healthy alternative to repairing teeth, you can be confident again in your smile. If you’re experiencing trouble with decaying or broken teeth, don’t wait to contact your dentist to see if you are a candidate for a crown procedure.