If fear is the reason you have not been to a dentist in years, you are not unusual, and this is the option that exists for exactly that.
Who it is for
A significant share of adults avoid dental care because of fear. Often it traces back to a bad experience years earlier, sometimes in childhood, and the avoidance compounds: the longer the gap, the more there is to face, and the harder it becomes to walk in.
Sedation interrupts that cycle. It allows treatment to happen comfortably, which means the backlog gets cleared and future visits start from a better place. Many patients who begin with sedation later find they no longer need it.
It is also useful beyond anxiety: a strong gag reflex, difficulty sitting still or staying comfortable for long appointments, sensitive teeth that are hard to numb, or simply wanting several procedures done in one sitting rather than four.
Also helpful for
From mild unease to genuine panic at the thought of an appointment.
Which can make impressions, x-rays and back-teeth work difficult.
Combining several procedures into one appointment rather than many.
Some people metabolise local anaesthetic quickly or have anatomy that complicates it.
Including patients with special needs or conditions that make holding a position hard.
Where the memory rather than the procedure is the obstacle.
Safety
Before any sedation, we review your full medical history and current medications, because both affect which option is appropriate and at what dose. Some medical conditions and drug interactions rule out particular approaches, and we would rather find that in the conversation than during the appointment.
You will be monitored throughout. Depending on the level of sedation used, you may need someone to drive you home, and we will tell you clearly in advance what the arrangements need to be so nothing is a surprise on the day.
Sedation is not a substitute for local anaesthetic. The area being treated is still numbed. Sedation addresses the anxiety and awareness, not the sensation.
Common questions
That depends on the level used, and for most dental sedation the answer is no. Lighter sedation leaves you awake and able to respond but relaxed and often with hazy recall of the appointment. Dr. Mathew will explain exactly what to expect from the option recommended for you.
When medical history is properly reviewed and the patient is monitored, it has a strong safety record. The important part is honesty about your health conditions, medications and supplements, including anything over the counter, since interactions are the main risk factor.
Yes, for procedures that require it. Sedation manages anxiety and awareness; local anaesthetic manages sensation. Many patients find that with sedation they do not mind the injection or do not clearly remember it.
With deeper sedation, no. You will need someone to drive you and, in some cases, stay with you for a period afterwards. We will confirm the requirements when we schedule so you can arrange it in advance.
Often yes, and that is one of the main reasons people choose it. Combining work that would otherwise take several appointments into one sitting is much easier under sedation. Whether it is advisable depends on the treatment involved.
No. Treating patients without judgment is something this practice takes seriously and states plainly. We see people who have been away from dental care for a very long time. The conversation is about what to do now, not about what happened before.
From anxious patients
I hadn't been to the dentist in 10 years and was terrified to come. Dr Matthew and Kim and Mary have all been fantastic. I had to have deep cleanings to get my oral health back on track and they have taken such great, gentle care of me. I will recommend this office to any and everyone looking for kind, efficient, and friendly dental care!
I was nervous because I dont like any kind of doctors but Dr. Mathew was absolutely amazing and easy going. And the assistants were awesome as well. Making great conversation before and during definitely helped me with this experience. Would recommend 10 out of 10 if you are looking for a great place for a great smile.
Great experience!!! I have dental phobia. Dr Mathews, Diego (assistant), Marianne (front staff) and Kim (dental hygienist) did a wonderful job helping me work through my fears!!! I also had a tooth removed and it went GREAT! I have referred my friends and family! Dr Mathews does a good job with explaining treatment that is needed.
Dr Matthew was a wonderful gentle and compassionate dentist. I am deathly afraid and needed extensive work. She was not only gentle but very kind in walking me through my options and I left a very happy patient today. She is not only an amazing Dentist but an amazing human being.
Dr Mathew is amazing. I haven't been to the dentist in a really long time but she made sure I was comfortable and asked if I was ok maybe 1000 times. My 2nd visit was even better of an experience. She's super nice, the place is super clean and they are officially my primary dentist going forward!!!
Dr Matthew's and her team were great. I am not a fan of the dentist however Dr. Matthew's professional and calming nature helped ease my dental anxiety. Dr Matthew takes time to listen and is also very detailed when going over your treatment plan. I am happy I chose her and her team for my dental needs.
Dr. Mathew's and staff are extremely patient and caring for those of us who have that fear of going to the dentist! My family and I appreciate their excellent care and will continue to utilize them when needed.
I chipped a tooth and was in pain. Being new to the area I did not have a Dentist. I googled dentistry and came upon Ingleside Family Dental and made an appointment. Dr. Mathew called me and spoke to me everyday leading up to my appointment. She made me feel very comfortable and calmed my anxiety. Thank you to you and Diego for making my experience a 5 star.
I needed a wisdom tooth removed and I have a phobia of losing teeth but the entire team went above and beyond to help me feel comfortable with the procedure and explained the process clearly. My favorite part was when I got to put on my favorite music! It settled my nerves completely and was able to get the tooth removed with no pain!
I haven't been to the dentist in a while, and I'm glad I found this place. Dr. Matthew's is very patient and always checks in to see if I'm having pain. The staff at check-in is always nice and pleasant.
I was nervous about coming. Mindy put my mind at ease. She is so sweet and reassuring. The dentist was just as nice. They got straight to the point and not a lot of waiting. Definitely found my dentist home!
Ready when you are
New patients are welcome, and dental emergencies are seen the same day.
Tell us a little about what you need and our team will be in touch.
