Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry? By: Dr Lee Lichtenstein Holmdel NJ
For many people in Monmouth County, visiting the dentist can be a source of anxiety or discomfort — but it doesn’t have to be. Sedation dentistry offers a safe, effective way to help both adults and children feel more relaxed during dental visits, whether they’re getting a routine cleaning or a complex procedure.
So, who can benefit the most from sedation dentistry? From those with dental phobia to children or patients with special needs, sedation can make a world of difference in how dental care is experienced.
Patients with Dental Anxiety or Fear
Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people avoid the dentist. Whether it’s due to a past traumatic experience, fear of pain, or just general nervousness, many residents in Holmdel, Middletown, and surrounding Monmouth County towns struggle to keep up with regular dental care.
Sedation options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral conscious sedation help ease anxiety, making it possible for patients to undergo treatment without stress or fear. This allows for better long-term oral health and a more positive relationship with dental care.
Individuals with Special Needs
People with physical, developmental, or cognitive challenges may find it difficult to sit still or manage sensory input during dental procedures. Sedation dentistry provides a calm and controlled environment where care can be delivered more comfortably and efficiently.
In Monmouth County, Dr Lee Lichtenstein is a Board Certified dual trained dentist anesthesiologist in the State of NJ. He works closely with caregivers of special needs individuals to create custom sedation plans tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring compassionate and effective treatment Being a Board Certified Anesthesiologist* sets him apart from other dentists and even other sedation dentists who do not have his level of training, certification and over 20 years of experience.
Those Undergoing Complex or Lengthy Dental Procedures
Patients who need multiple procedures in one visit — such as crowns, root canals, periodontal procedures — can benefit significantly from sedation. It not only improves comfort but also allows dentists to complete more work in fewer visits.
Sedation can also help those with:
- A low pain threshold
- A sensitive gag reflex
- Difficulty sitting or keeping their mouth open for long periods
This is especially helpful for adults balancing busy schedules who want to minimize trips to the dentist.
Sedation Dentistry for Children in Monmouth County
Sedation isn’t just for adults. Many pediatric dental patients benefit from sedation dentistry, particularly those who:
- Are very young or unable to cooperate fully
- Have dental anxiety or fear of needles
- Require extensive or emergency dental work such as root canal therapy on a permanent first molar tooth (“6-year molar”), often for 9 – 15 year old children and teenagers
- Have behavioral or sensory challenges
Dentists in Holmdel, Colts Neck, and the surrounding area often use mild sedation, such as nitrous oxide, to help children feel calm but still awake and responsive
In the entire state of New Jersey there are NO (or none that I know of) pediatric dentists trained and have a permit to do deep sedation or general anesthesia. One needs an actual permit issued by the NJ State Board of Dentistry specifically allowing a dentist to do deep sedation and general anesthesia. This is a MUCH more special certificate than a “parental IV moderate (“conscious”) sedation permit. The GA Permit requires a full hospital based residency specific to anesthesiology.
Parents are always encouraged to ask about safety protocols, monitoring, and recovery times — all of which are carefully managed by experienced dental teams.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right for You or Your Child?
Whether you’re an adult putting off dental visits due to anxiety or a parent looking for a gentle solution for your child, sedation dentistry offers a path to more comfortable care.
If you’re in Monmouth County or anywhere in the state of New Jersey, consider a consultation with Dr Lee Lichtenstein to discuss sedation options, safety, and what to expect during treatment. Taking the first step toward anxiety-free dentistry can make a big difference in your health — and your peace of mind.
Phone: (732) 739-3337
leemlichtenstein@gmail.com
723 North Beers Street Holmdel, NJ 07733