Sedation Dentistry
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry focuses on helping patients feel at ease during dental treatments using medications. Most people with dental anxiety, particularly children, often have a fear of needles or dental instruments. With dental sedation, we offer a needle-free way to minimize pain and sensitivity during treatments.
Unlike general anesthesia, in which the patient becomes fully unconscious, you remain responsive to physical touch and verbal commands. This technique is safe for both children and adults, helping them feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental appointments.
Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Candidates For Sedation Dentistry
Dental sedation is suitable for anyone who struggles with dental anxiety and needs help to relax before treatment. You may be a good candidate if you have:
- Severe dental phobia or anxiety
- Had a traumatic dental experience in the past
- Fear of needles
- Fear of dental instruments
- Tender or sensitive teeth
- Sensitive gag reflex
- Trouble getting numb with local anesthesia
- To undergo a complex procedure
Depending on your age, oral health, and other factors, our dentist will choose the best dental sedative for your needs.
Types of Dental Sedation
Inhalation Sedation
It is an easy technique in which we place a small nasal mask over your nose. The mask delivers a monitored dosage of nitrous oxide gas (commonly known as laughing gas) mixed with oxygen. When you breathe in the gas, it induces a state of ease within a few minutes. It can ease your nerves and make you feel much more relaxed before dental treatment. The effect of inhalation sedation wears off quickly once the gas flow is turned off. This way, you can drive yourself back and resume normal activities soon after the procedure.
Oral Sedation
For people with moderate to severe dental anxiety, we prefer oral sedation to help them feel relaxed before treatment. Our dentist will prescribe an oral sedative that you will have to take an hour before the procedure. By the time your treatment starts, you will feel at ease and won’t experience pain or discomfort during the procedure. Like inhalation sedation, you will remain conscious and responsive throughout. Oral sedatives take longer to wear off, so we recommend bringing a friend or family member along for assistance.
Patient Testimonials
See what out happy patients have to say about us
Took my 7 month old in for his first visit and everyone was so helpful and made the first visit so easy . Lisa in the front was so helpful answering any question I had and was so nice to me and my baby ,as well as made checking out easy and fast . Nora in the room was so patient and made sure my child was comfortable.
Karina and Lisa were very attentive in the front ! Nora, Juana, Alex were attentive to my treatment needs ! Dr. Dang is the best DANG dentist !!! He’s was very detailed with my treatment! He took his time to make sure I was comfortable through out my whole dental treatment!! Thank y’all !!
ruly and very satisfied with my dental appointment, I hadn't gone to the dentist in about 8 years because I had a bad experience. I switched my entire family to be seen with Dr.Dang, him and his team are great. Nora the dental assistant was very nice and informative throughout the whole visit.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Having a fear of going to the dentist is common, but it should not stop you from getting routine oral exams and necessary treatments. That’s why we utilize sedation dentistry to put your mind at ease. It offers many benefits, including:
- Reduces dental anxiety and makes you feel relaxed during dental procedures.
- Provides a safe alternative for those with needle phobia.
- Enables patients to attain the oral care they require.
- Minimizes pain, sensitivity, or discomfort during dental treatments.
- Helps children to stay calm during a dental procedure.
- Allows you to experience comfortable oral care.
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
If you are worried about the effects of dental sedation on your overall health, rest assured that it is completely safe. Our dentists will select the type and dosage of sedatives depending on your age and the complexity of treatment. For children, we usually recommend laughing gas inhalation as it is safe, easier to administer, and offers immediate results. Our team will monitor their responsiveness and vitals throughout the procedure to ensure their health status.
Oral conscious sedation is also safe and does not involve any risks or complications. It induces a state of relaxation only for a few hours, during which we will complete the treatment process. Once the effect wears off, you can resume your routine activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sedation dentistry is considered safe when provided by trained professionals who review your health history first and monitor you during treatment. We carefully choose the appropriate level of sedation for your situation and comfort. We'll discuss your options and answer any questions so you feel confident and at ease.
