CarolinasDentist Blog

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Wooden letter blocks being turned from PANIC to CALM against a tan background

Sedation dentistry not only helps relieve anxiety, they can also make appointments feel like they go by faster and reduce the likelihood of having a negative experience.

Is Dental Sedation Safe for Me?

Before we add dental sedation to a patient’s treatment plan, we always review their medical and dental history. We strive to keep your records up-to-date with all relevant information, so please let us know if anything changes with your health status. Patients with liver, kidney, or thyroid disorders are not always good candidates for sedation. Pregnant women are typically advised to avoid dental sedation whenever possible as well.

We would be happy to discuss specific health concerns at your appointment. We also recommend consulting with your primary care provider.

Which Sedation Has the Fewest Side Effects?

Nitrous oxide is the mildest form of dental sedation. It is administered via a nose mask. Patients are not rendered unconscious and its effects wear off within minutes of breathing normal air. If you are interested in trying out dental sedation for the first time, nitrous oxide might be a great option for you. It can also be used in conjunction with other forms of sedation.

Is Dental Sedation Dangerous?

When administered by trained dental healthcare professionals, dental sedation is safe and effective. The temporary side effects associated with stronger forms of sedation dissipate after a few hours. For example, dry mouth, dizziness, headaches, and nausea are considered normal side effects for sedation. If anything more serious arises or you develop a fever at any point, please get in touch with our office. In general, patients usually just feel more tired and worn out than usual. If you utilize any sedation besides nitrous oxide, driving and making big decisions should be avoided for 24 hours post-treatment.

To learn more about dental sedation at CarolinasDentist, please visit our sedation page or contact our team!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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