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Enjoy Relaxed and Calmer Dental Care with Sedation Dentistry

Does the idea of a dental visit make you feel uneasy? You are not alone. Dental anxiety is real and affects nearly 50% of Americans. At Mashni Dentistry, we welcome nervous patients and plan their visits with their comfort in mind. Drs. James and Jason Mashni offer sedation dentistry in East Lansing, Michigan, to help you feel relaxed and maintain control over your treatment.

Why do I have dental fear?

There’s no shame in having dental fear. It’s a common experience that affects people of all ages worldwide. So, why do you have dental anxiety? Understanding the source of your fear is the first step toward managing it.

The common causes of dental fear include:

  • Past negative experiences at a dental visit
  • Loss of control in the dental chair
  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • Feeling overwhelmed in new or unfamiliar environments
  • Embarrassment with the current state of their oral health
  • Fear of the unknown

Many people feel so anxious about dental visits that they delay or avoid care altogether. Unfortunately, putting off appointments often allows minor problems to grow, leading to more complex and expensive treatment later. This can create a frustrating cycle of fear and avoidance. Sedation dentistry helps break that cycle by making visits calm, comfortable, and manageable.

Patient experiencing dental anxiety during exam at Mashni Dentistry in East Lansing, MI
Patient receiving conscious sedation during dental treatment at Mashni Dentistry in East Lansing, MI

What is oral sedation dentistry?

Our office offers oral sedation, also known as conscious sedation. This option involves taking a prescribed oral medication about an hour before your treatment. Sedation dentistry isn’t the same as general anesthesia. You remain awake and able to respond, but your anxiety fades, and everything feels slower and easier to handle. Many patients describe feeling deeply at ease, detached from the noises and sensations that would normally bother them.

Time often seems to pass quickly, and most people remember very little of the appointment afterward. However, patients need someone to escort them home because of the lingering effects of sedation. It’s also advisable to avoid strenuous activities, alcohol, driving, and operating machinery for at least 24 hours.

What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a simple, effective way to make dental care feel manageable again. Here are the benefits you can expect.

  • Stress-free experience: Sedation helps calm your dental fears or anxieties, providing a relaxed experience.
  • Pain-free treatment: Combining anesthetics with sedation dentistry ensures a pain-free experience, regardless of your treatment.
  • Faster dental care: When you are relaxed in the dental chair, the dentist can work more efficiently due to fewer movements and fidgeting. We can also combine multiple treatments in a single visit, resulting in less disruption to your everyday life.
  • Continuity of care: A positive experience with sedation dentistry makes future visits feel easier. As a result, you’ll adhere to routine dental care to maintain optimal oral health.
  • Safety: We use FDA-approved medication and monitor you during your visit to optimize your safety and comfort.
  • Polite reminder: You are not a difficult patient. You are a person with real feelings. However, with the right plan, you can regain control of your dental care.
Relaxed patient smiling after sedation dentistry at Mashni Dentistry in East Lansing, MI

Do you need sedation dentistry in East Lansing, Michigan?

Do you have dental fear? Mashni Dentistry would love to help you feel cared for and supported. Call (517) 399-2832 and learn how sedation dentistry in East Lansing can make your dental visits manageable and even peaceful.

Professional headshot of Dr. James Mashni from Mashni Dentistry in East Lansing, Michigan

Dr. James Mashni

Dr. James Mashni is a compassionate and knowledgeable dentist who prioritizes patient care and education. After earning his degree in Human Biology and Nutrition from Michigan State University, he graduated from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. Building meaningful relationships with patients is important to him, as it supports their health goals. Dr. Mashni is a member of the American Dental Association, the Michigan Dental Association, the Central District Dental Society, and the Academy of General Dentistry. He continually updates his skills by staying up to date on the latest dental innovations.

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Dr. Jason Mashni professional headshot at Mashni Dentistry, East Lansing, Michigan

Dr. Jason Mashni

Dr. Jason Mashni is a skilled dentist committed to patient care and education. He completed his undergraduate studies at Michigan State University and graduated from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry at the top of his class. Practicing alongside his father and brother, he emphasizes evidence-based dentistry while staying up to date on new advancements. As a member of the American Dental Association, Michigan Dental Association, Central District Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, and American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Dr. Jason is active in his field. He enjoys volunteering locally and internationally.

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