Relax and Restore Your Smile with Sedation Dentistry

For many people, anxiety begins the moment they schedule a dental procedure. The thought of sitting through surgery, hearing instruments, or feeling even slight discomfort can make it difficult to move forward with care. 

Sedation dentistry changes that experience. Using safe, medically monitored methods, it allows patients to rest comfortably while their periodontal or implant treatment is completed with precision and care. 

At Bonomo Periodontics, sedation is part of how we make advanced treatment approachable. From gum grafting to dental implants, our tailored options help patients relax fully so they can focus on the outcome rather than the process. 

This article explains what sedation dentistry is, when it is recommended for periodontal and implant care, and how it helps every patient receive treatment safely and comfortably. 

What Is Sedation Dentistry? 

Sedation dentistry, sometimes called comfort dentistry or sleep dentistry, uses controlled medications to help patients feel relaxed during treatment. The goal is not only to reduce anxiety but also to create a calm, pain-free environment where procedures can be completed efficiently and safely. 

At Bonomo Periodontics, sedation is an integral part of our approach to care. We combine modern technology, compassionate attention, and professional monitoring to ensure every patient feels secure from start to finish.  

Whether your procedure involves deep cleaning, gum surgery, or implant placement, sedation allows you to stay calm and comfortable while we focus on precision. 

Understanding why sedation is so valuable begins with the type of care periodontists provide and the level of detail those treatments require

Why Sedation Is Used in Periodontal and Implant Care 

Periodontal treatment often involves intricate surgical work around sensitive gum tissue and bone. Staying relaxed during these procedures helps ensure they are completed smoothly and safely. Sedation supports this process by easing muscle tension, reducing awareness of time, and eliminating discomfort. 

Sedation is especially helpful for patients who: 

• Experience dental anxiety or fear 
• Have a sensitive gag reflex or difficulty remaining still 
• Need multiple or longer procedures in one visit 
• Have had challenging dental experiences in the past 

By minimizing stress, sedation dentistry allows both patients and clinicians to focus on achieving excellent outcomes. This supportive approach continues through each level of sedation available at Bonomo Periodontics. 

The Three Levels of Sedation at Bonomo Periodontics 

Finding the right level of relaxation depends on the type of procedure and the patient’s comfort level. Our team offers three proven options, each administered and monitored with care: 

1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) 

Nitrous oxide provides light relaxation during short or simple procedures. Patients breathe a colorless, odorless gas that quickly helps them feel calm and comfortable. The effects wear off within minutes after treatment, allowing most patients to drive themselves home. This option is ideal for mild anxiety or brief visits. 

Transitioning to longer or more complex procedures, some patients prefer a deeper level of calm that lasts throughout the appointment. 

2. Oral Sedation 

Oral sedation involves taking prescribed medication before your visit. You remain awake but deeply relaxed. Supplemental Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) is also during the procedure. Patients become less aware of surrounding activities. Many patients describe the experience as peaceful and easy to manage. 

This option is often chosen for moderate anxiety or longer procedures such as implant placement or periodontal deep cleanings. Because the effects can last several hours, a trusted driver is necessary to accompany you to and from the appointment. 

For those needing advanced surgical treatment or a  sleep-level comfort, IV sedation provides the highest degree of relaxation and control. 

3. IV Sedation 

IV sedation is administered intravenously for a  sleep-like state throughout the procedure. Patients rest comfortably with little or no memory of treatment afterward. Every moment is carefully monitored to maintain stable vital signs and full safety. 

This level of sedation is often preferred for gum grafts, extractions, osseous surgery and full implant procedures. It allows Dr. Bonomo and his team to complete complex work efficiently while ensuring patients remain entirely at ease. 

Once the right level of sedation is selected, patients can feel confident knowing their care is managed by a team with advanced training in anesthesia safety.   

The following are a few instructions to help you prepare for IV sedation. 

• Prior to this type of anesthesia you will need to fast food and drink 8 hours. 
• A driver is also necessary for this level of sedation.   
• Please make sure to wear short sleeves, comfortable clothing, no high heels and remove all nail polish. 
•   Most medications should be taken prior to your procedure. If you are a diabetic and use insulin you should not take the medication until after the procedure has been performed.  
•  If you wear contact lenses, please remove them before your appointment or wear glasses to the office.  
• You cannot return to work after the procedure is over. You must return home and rest/sleep as the sedation agents require several hours before they are completely metabolized.  
• You cannot operate a vehicle or machinery for the remainder of the day.  

Safety and Expertise You Can Trust 

Every sedation plan with us begins with safety. From your initial consultation to post-procedure recovery, our team monitors each stage closely to ensure complete comfort. 

Dr. Raymond Bonomo completed a three-year specialty residency that included extensive hospital-based anesthesia training. His expertise allows our team to tailor sedation precisely to your health history, comfort preferences, and treatment goals. He is also one of few Periodontists that offer this type of comfort sleep dentistry in the Dayton, Cincinnati and surrounding areas. 

During every procedure, your vital signs are continuously tracked, and you remain under the care of skilled professionals who specialize in patient safety. This advanced preparation and oversight help create the most comfortable and secure treatment experience possible. 

Knowing what to expect before, during, and after sedation can also help you feel more confident as you plan your procedure. 

What to Expect Before and After Sedation 

Your comfort begins well before treatment day. Our team explains every step, so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare. 

Before Your Appointment 

Before sedation, your care team reviews your medical history, medications, and procedure plan. Together, we determine which level of sedation best suits your needs. 

If you are receiving oral or IV sedation, you will be given clear pre-visit instructions that outline when to take your medication, what to eat or avoid, and whether you will need a driver. 

During Your Procedure 

Once sedation begins, most patients describe the experience as restful. You remain safely monitored throughout, with attention to your comfort and stability at every moment. Many patients are surprised by how quickly the procedure seems to pass. 

After Care and Recovery 

Recovery depends on the type of sedation used. 

• Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes, allowing patients to resume normal activities soon after. 
• Oral or IV sedation may require the rest of the day for full recovery. 

Before you leave, our team provides detailed aftercare instructions to help you rest, rehydrate, and heal comfortably. 

When you are ready to plan your procedure, you can expect compassionate care that prioritizes both your comfort and your results. 

Experience Stress-Free Periodontal Care with Bonomo Periodontics 

Advanced treatment does not have to cause anxiety. With modern sedation dentistry, even the most complex periodontal and implant procedures can feel manageable, safe, and calm. 

At Bonomo Periodontics, every patient receives individualized care supported by advanced technology and extensive training in sedation techniques. Whether you need a single treatment or a comprehensive plan to restore your smile, we make comfort a priority every step of the way. 

Ready to relax and restore your oral health? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how sedation dentistry can make your next visit completely stress-free.