Are dental fears keeping you from having a healthy mouth? You're not alone. Many people delay dental care for years due to fear, anxiety, or past traumatic experiences. Others struggle with sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or difficulty getting numb.Â
Dr. Tammy Kussman, a Brentwood native with over 25 years of experience, earned her D.D.S. from Indiana University and is certified in conscious sedation through the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS).Â
At our practice, we specialize in helping patients feel calm, comfortable, and cared for. With safe, effective sedation techniques, even the most anxious patients can finally receive the dental treatment they need—free from stress and fear.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses safe, controlled medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. At our office, we offer oral conscious sedation, which involves taking a small pill about an hour before your appointment. You'll arrive at our office feeling drowsy, and you'll remain deeply relaxed throughout your visit—awake, but unaware of the details of the procedure. It's not unlike dreaming through your appointment.
One of the major advantages of conscious sedation is that it allows us to complete multiple or complex procedures in a single visit. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more advanced restorative work, you can rest comfortably while we take care of everything.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry isn't just for those with severe dental anxiety—though it certainly helps. It's also ideal for anyone who:
- Experiences fear at the thought of dental treatment
- Has delayed care for years due to anxiety
- Struggles with a strong gag reflex or sensitivity to sounds, smells, or discomfort
- Has difficulty getting numb with traditional anesthetic methods
- Prefers to complete extensive treatment in fewer appointments
- Desires a calm, supportive environment for their care
We understand that the dental chair is a source of fear for many people. We aim to change that narrative—to make your dental experience one of comfort, compassion, and trust.
What to Expect on Appointment Day
The process is simple and straightforward. About one hour before your visit, you'll take a prescribed sedative pill. It's important that you arrange for a driver, as you won't be able to drive yourself to or from the appointment.
You'll be gently monitored when you arrive to ensure your comfort and safety. You'll feel drowsy, like you're drifting in and out of sleep, but you'll remain responsive if needed. Many patients report having little or no memory of the procedure afterward—which is exactly how it should be.
Most importantly, we can complete a wide range of dental treatments while you are relaxed and at ease. From fillings to crowns to cosmetic work, sedation dentistry allows us to make significant progress in a single visit, saving you time and stress.
After Treatment: A Smooth Recovery
Once your dental work is complete, your driver will escort you home. You'll continue to feel relaxed as the medication wears off. Most patients feel completely back to normal within a few hours. Best of all, you'll likely remember little, if anything, about the procedure itself—just that it was far easier than expected.
Why Choose Dr. Tammy Kussman for Sedation Dentistry?
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Tammy Kussman brings compassionate, expert care to patients in Brentwood, TN. A graduate of Indiana University's School of Dentistry, she is known for her individualized approach and gentle manner—making her a trusted choice for patients with dental anxiety. Many of her patients come through word-of-mouth referrals, a testament to her attentive care and long-standing community ties.Â
Dr. Kussman stays at the forefront of dental advancements through continuous education and active membership in leading professional organizations, including the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS). Whether you're new to sedation dentistry or have delayed care for years, Dr. Tammy's commitment to comfort, safety, and modern techniques ensures a relaxing, high-quality experience tailored just for you.
Comfort-First Dentistry in Brentwood, TN
If dental anxiety has been standing in the way of your oral health, there's no better time to explore a more comfortable solution. Sedation dentistry at Tammy Kussman D.D.S. offers a calming, stress-free experience for patients in Brentwood, TN. We invite you to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile—without fear.
Call us today at 615.346.3007 to schedule your personalized consultation. We're here to help you feel relaxed, cared for, and ready to smile again.
