What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry aims to provide a comfortable and relaxing environment for those who struggle with dental visits. Sedation options can vary depending on the patient's needs.
Which Problems Can Sedation Dentistry Help?
Anxiety
Dental anxiety is a common condition in the United States. According to the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), 50%-80% of adults have anxiety surrounding the dentistry office. This fear results in irregular dental visits and more significant oral wellness problems. Sedation dentistry can help calm your nerves around treatments and get you into our Flowood dental office sooner.
Trouble Sitting Still
Sitting still can be difficult for people with cerebral palsy, Parkinson's Disease, and other medical conditions. However, certain procedures may require you to stay in the same chair at the dentist for quite some time. Sedation options can help patients remain comfortable when seated for this extended period.
Sensitive Gag Reflex
Patients with a sensitive gag reflex can find the dentistry office an uncomfortable experience. Patients can find comfort with sedation dentistry.
Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth and gums can make going to the dentist a painful and uncomfortable experience. We make dental appointments at our Flowood, MS, dental office a virtually painless experience with sedation dentistry.
Long Dental Procedures
If you're getting a ton of dental work done in one sitting, such as a smile makeover or full mouth reconstruction, the process can take a while. Sedation dentistry can help the time pass quickly.
Don't Delay Your Dental Appointment Any Longer
If you've put off going to the dentist out of fear, sensitivity, or any of the problems above, take back control of your oral wellness with sedation dentistry. Drs. O'Keefe and Belote at Family Dental Care in Flowood, MS, make going to the dentist a comfortable process. Request an appointment and say yes to dental care by calling us at:
(601) 936-2526

Easing Anxiety and Making Dental Care Easier 5-Star Reviews From Patients at Our Flowood, MS, Dentistry Office
Family Dental & Dr Belote are awesome! I have extreme anxiety issues but after going to this great dental office I am so much better. Without their kindness I don’t know where I would be. Thank you! Dr Belote & your wonderful staff! God bless each of you! Love y’all ❤️
View on GoogleMy first time to visit and everyone was great! They explained everything as they took their time with me. I felt comfortable and at ease. Wish I would have found them many years ago. I assure anyone you will not go wrong by choosing them, glad I did!
View on GoogleOur Dentists Eliminate Jackson's Pain
Hear what patients think about sedation dental care at our Flowood, MS, office.
We Have the Wand for Virtually Painless Anesthesia
/
Our dentists have a computer-guided anesthesia delivery system known as the Wand® which can be used to anesthetize a single tooth with a comfortable digital injection, allowing patients to feel less pain.
Sedation Dentistry Can Make Procedures More Effective
While much of the focus of sedation dentistry revolves around eliminating patient anxiety and pain, it is important to also note that the use of sedatives can help our expert dentists carry out even more effective procedures.
When our Jackson patients are calm and relaxed after receiving their sedatives, they become easier to operate on. As the tension of a dental appointment is removed, our dentists can carry out more precise procedures.
Sedation can be especially effective for longer procedures since it can make a procedure that takes hours feel like it went by in minutes. Without having to worry about an uncomfortable patient, our dentists can take the time they need to perfect your smile.

Sedation Dentistry Is Just the Beginning Using the Latest Tech for Smile-Transforming Procedures
The relaxation of sedation dentistry is made even better when it is followed by the joyful feeling of seeing a newly enhanced smile. Our dentists use a variety of cutting-edge technologies to make sure our dental results are as stellar as possible.
For example, we have the ultramodern CEREC® system that allows us to craft customized dental crowns in-house without needing to spend time sending scans to a dental lab. Our other advanced technology includes low-radiation digital X-rays and fiber-optic lighting systems. We have even invested in technology to make procedures that don't necessarily require sedation more painless, like our air abrasion for gentle cavity removal.
Call or write to us today for effective, anxiety-free dentistry.
(601) 936-2526
Making Patients Comfortable in the Dental Chair More 5-Star Reviews From Happy Jackson, MS, Patients
made me feel comfortable and at ease... Thank you Family Dental for such excellent services and professional care workers.
View on GoogleThis is an amazing group of professionals. They make going to the dentist a positive experience. Keep up the great work and wonderful atmosphere.
View on GoogleWho Is Not a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Our dentistry team offers several sedation options to help cater to various Jackson patients' needs. However, one or more sedation options may not be suitable for you.
Nitrous Oxide
Laughing gas sedation is safe for almost all patients, including children and the elderly, because it is non-allergenic. However, nitrous oxide is not recommended for patients with the following conditions:
- Pregnant women in their first trimester
- Congestive heart failure
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Middle ear infections
- Chronic asthma
- Chronic bronchitis
Oral Conscious Sedation and IV Sedation
By reviewing your medical history and current medication list, your dentist can determine if oral conscious sedation is right for you. Patients may not qualify for oral conscious sedation or IV sedation if on a particular medication or with certain health conditions, such as:
- Sleep apnea
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Blood pressure medication
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Our doctors prioritize your safety before, during, and after a dental procedure.
Before your procedure, we analyze your medical history to ensure dental sedation is safe for you. We cater to each of our patients as individuals and take the time to listen and address their concerns.
On the day of the procedure, Dr. O’Keefe and his staff, including an anesthesiologist, will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure. If you start to have problems, Dr. O’Keefe and his staff are trained to assist you immediately.
After your procedure, our doctors will call to see how you're recovering. We're with you every step of the way.

Changing How Patients Feel About Dentistry More Great Reviews From Jackson
I love this place, everyone is very friendly and kind. I have had bad experiences with dentist in the past, but safe to say the staff is amazing and caring and I believe that I have found my dental home.
View on GoogleIf you have dental anxiety, you NEED to go to Family Dental Care!... Not only do they listen, they remember all my quirks, making each visit easier than the last. They treat you as an individual and don’t just look for $$$. They will do everything they can to save your teeth and even if they can’t save them they can do implants too!
View on Google