Sedation Dentistry in Los Angeles
If you’re anxious about dental work, sedation may be a good option for you. Sedation dentistry involves using medications to help you relax during your appointment.
This can make the experience much more comfortable for you and may even allow us to complete the work in fewer visits. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office today.
What is Sedation Dentistry ?
There are various types of sedation available and they all can make the experience much more comfortable for you. Some of the different types of sedation include:
- Oral sedation: This is the most common type of sedation and involves taking a pill before your appointment. Oral sedation is safe and effective. It causes a mild state of relaxation.
- IV sedation: This type of sedation is administered through an IV, and it allows the dentist to control the level of sedation more precisely. It also takes effect more quickly than oral sedation. IV is great for more complex procedures because we can easily increase or decrease the level of sedation.
- Nitrous oxide: Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative that helps you relax and can be used in combination with other types of sedation. This benefit of nitrous oxide is that it wears off quickly and you will be able to drive yourself home after your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you decide to pursue sedation dentistry, you can expect to feel relaxed and comfortable during your appointment. You may even fall asleep. Most people report feeling no pain or discomfort whatsoever.
You will need to have someone drive you home after your appointment (unless you have taken nitrous oxide). The effects of the sedation can last for several hours, so it is not safe for you to operate a vehicle. Once you are home, you should rest and relax for the remainder of the day.
If you have any questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please don’t hesitate to ask us. We want to make sure that you feel comfortable and confident before, during and after your appointment.
Patients with the following conditions may be good candidates for dental sedation:
- Dental anxiety or fear
- Sensitive teeth
- Strong gag reflex
- Difficulty getting numb
- Jaw pain or TMJ disorders
- Need for extensive dental work
- Claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces)
If you experience any of these conditions, please don’t hesitate to ask us about sedation options. We will be more than happy to help you find a solution that works for you. Dental anxiety is a very common condition, but it should not keep you from getting the dental care you need.
There are very few risks associated with dental sedation. However, you should ensure your dental practice is experienced in administering dental sedation, as there is always a small risk associated with any form of sedation.
You will be asked to arrive a little earlier than your appointment time to complete the necessary paperwork. You will also be given an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the procedure. This will ensure that you are fully prepared for your appointment.
There are no long-term side effects of using dental sedation. However, you may experience some short-term side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. These side effects will generally resolve within a few hours after the procedure.
Conclusion
Sedation dentistry can be a great option for those who have a fear of dental procedures. If you are considering sedation dentistry, speak to us about the different options available to you. You may be surprised at how easy and comfortable your experience can be. Contact us today.
