Sit Back, Relax, and Smile Again with Sedation Dentistry in Franklin, TN

Dentist That Will Put You To Sleep in Franklin TN Area

Dental anxiety is more common than most people realize, affecting millions of adults and children alike. Whether it’s due to a past traumatic experience, a strong gag reflex, or general nervousness about dental work, avoiding the dentist can lead to worsening oral health. At Nashville Restorative Dentistry, we believe that fear should never be a barrier to care.

Drs. Ryan Jones and Caleb Estes offer a range of proven, patient-friendly sedation dentistry solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’re anxious about a routine procedure or planning to complete extensive dental work in fewer visits, we’re here to support your comfort with safe and compassionate care.

What Types of Sedation Dentistry Are Offered in Franklin, TN?

Our Franklin dental office offers several effective sedation options to meet the needs of a wide range of patients:

Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas): Ideal for patients of all ages, nitrous oxide provides a light level of sedation to help you feel more relaxed throughout your appointment. You’ll remain fully awake and able to communicate. The effects wear off quickly—often within minutes—so you can return to work, school, or drive yourself home afterward.
Oral Conscious Sedation: For those needing more than what laughing gas provides or those undergoing longer procedures, oral sedation provides deeper relaxation. You’ll take a prescribed sedative pill the night before your appointment and shortly before your visit. You’ll stay conscious but deeply relaxed, and many patients remember little to nothing about the appointment afterward. You’ll need a companion to drive you to and from your visit, as the sedative effects can last several hours.
General Anesthesia (via Nashville Office-Based Anesthesia (NOBA)): For patients needing or desiring to be fully unconscious, we offer in-office general anesthesia through our partnership with NOBA. A board-certified anesthesiologist comes to our office to safely administer and monitor general anesthesia, allowing patients to sleep through their treatment. This option is ideal for those with severe dental anxiety, complex treatment needs, or special healthcare considerations.

What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

Feel calm and at ease throughout treatment
Minimize discomfort and pain
Complete complex treatments in fewer visits
Reduce dental phobia and rebuild trust in dental care
Encourage regular preventive care and long-term oral health

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry can make dental care accessible and comfortable for many patients, especially those who:

Struggle with moderate to severe dental anxiety
Have a strong gag reflex
Need extensive or time-consuming dental work
Have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia alone
Suffer from generalized anxiety disorder or PTSD related to dental visits

It’s also an excellent option for patients considering a Smile Makeover or Full Mouth Rehabilitation, or those who want to complete multiple procedures in fewer visits. Before recommending sedation, we’ll review your health history, medications, and comfort level to determine the safest and most appropriate method for you.

Call Our Office for More Information

New Patients: (615) 640-8494 | Existing Patients: (615) 591-0294
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How Safe Is Sedation Dentistry for Patients with Anxiety?

Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to maximize your comfort, no matter how simple or complex the procedure may be. When administered by trained professionals like our team at Nashville Restorative Dentistry, dental sedation is extremely safe. We use proven protocols and follow strict monitoring procedures throughout your appointment to ensure your safety. Side effects are rare, and our team remains by your side to make sure you feel secure and supported.

Experience Calmer, More Comfortable Dental Care

At Nashville Restorative Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort, your health, and your peace of mind. If you’ve been putting off important dental care due to fear or past negative experiences, sedation dentistry can help you take that next step toward a healthier, happier smile.

Call (615) 640-8494 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options for sedation dentistry in Franklin, TN. We welcome patients from Brentwood, Cool Springs, Nashville, and surrounding communities who are ready for a better dental experience.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

Will I be put to sleep during the procedure?

No. With both nitrous oxide and oral sedation, you’ll remain conscious but relaxed. These options are not general anesthesia. However, general anesthesia is available through our partnership with Nashville Office-Based Anesthesia (NOBA) for patients who need to be fully asleep.

Can I eat before my sedation appointment?

It depends on the type of sedation. For oral sedation or general anesthesia, we will advise that you don’t eat or drink for several hours before your visit. We’ll give you clear instructions beforehand.

How long does the sedation effect last?

Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes. Oral sedation can last several hours, so you’ll need someone to drive you home and rest after your procedure. General anesthesia recovery is longer and monitored carefully.

Is sedation covered by dental insurance?

Sometimes. Coverage depends on your insurance provider and the medical necessity of sedation. We’re happy to review your benefits and discuss financing options if needed.

What procedures can I use sedation for?

Sedation can be used for most types of dental treatment—from cleanings and fillings to crowns and surgical procedures—depending on your comfort level and specific needs.

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Nashville Restorative Dentistry

Dr. Ryan M. Jones

Ryan M. Jones, DDS, FAGD, focuses on delivering excellence in dental care and creating beautiful smiles, fighting disease and inflammation, using biocompatible materials, and educating patients about their scope of treatment options. He is an alumnus of Brentwood High School, the University of Tennessee (Knoxville), and the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry (Memphis). He is a graduate and mentor for the Kois Center in Seattle, a world-class post-graduate facility focusing on comprehensive patient care. He has taken the Pikos Institute (Tampa, FL) curriculum, which is focused on advanced surgical techniques. He’s also earned a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) and is currently expanding his digital dentistry and Exocad knowledge in various courses.

Dr. Jones is also passionate about providing for the underserved and has taken part in many dentistry-related charity and community projects.

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Dr. Caleb M. Estes

Caleb M. Estes, DMD, FAGD, is a dedicated professional with a strong academic background and extensive postdoctoral education. After graduating from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville and earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the SIU School of Dental Medicine, he has constantly pursued advanced training. He has earned a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry and is a graduate of the prestigious Kois Center. Before joining Nashville Restorative Dentistry, he served in the US Army as a general dentist and a Captain, deploying alongside US and NATO forces to Afghanistan in 2015. He also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program with the Army during this time.

Dr. Estes’ passion is to provide excellence in clinical dentistry and patient care while using the best restorative and preventative materials available. Accomplished in both surgical and restorative dentistry, he finds great fulfillment in transforming smiles and instilling confidence in his patients.

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Virginia H.

Patient Testimonial

Issue: Severely compromised remaining natural teeth with multiple areas of decay, failing previous dental work, missing teeth, unaesthetically restored lower front implants, and extremely worn and chipped upper front teeth.

Solution: Through a detailed plan of bone grafting, implant placement, and new crowns on the remaining natural teeth – a dramatic restoration of function and cosmetic appearance was possible.

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