Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry in San Diego

Visiting the dentist can create anxiety for many people. The prospect of sitting in the dentist’s chair can be daunting, whether due to fear of pain, a previous traumatic dental encounter, or general dental phobia.

However, avoiding the dentist can significantly impact your oral health and sometimes cause the need for complicated procedures to be performed when an earlier visit may have only required a simple filling.

At La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics, our sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, can help anxious patients feel safe and more at ease.

What are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

Advantages include:

Anxiety Relief

Sedation dentistry is highly effective in calming dental anxiety and phobia, making it easier for individuals to seek necessary dental care.

Pain Management

It helps to manage pain during more invasive and lengthy procedures, reducing discomfort and ensuring patients don’t feel pain.

Shorter Appointment Times

Patients under sedation are often more cooperative, allowing dentists to work more efficiently.

Sedation dentistry may be indicated for patients with the following conditions or concerns:

Dental Phobias

Individuals with an intense fear of dental procedures can benefit from sedation to make their appointments more bearable.

A Severe Gag Reflex

Some people have an overly sensitive gag reflex that makes dental procedures uncomfortable. Sedation can help control this reflex.

Special Needs

Patients with special needs or those who find it challenging to sit still can benefit from sedation to ensure their dental care is completed safely.

Complex Dental Needs

For extensive or lengthy dental work, sedation can help both the patient and the dentist.

Sedation dentistry has proven to be transformative for those who’ve avoided essential dental care due to fear or anxiety. By offering various levels of sedation, La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics ensures that patients can receive the necessary treatments and enjoy a comfortable and stress-free dental experience.

If you’re one of the many who dread visiting the dentist and want to learn more about sedation dentistry, call 858-295-0603 to reach our San Diego Dental office.

What Does Sedation Dentistry Involve?

Sedation dentistry is designed to provide the benefits mentioned above for patients who need dental treatments to be more comfortable and less stressful.

The process varies widely, depending on the level of sedation, which may range from minimal sedation to general anesthesia. In most cases, patients will need someone to bring them to and from their appointments, but if only nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is used, you may be able to drive yourself home.

The deepest sedation option can require fasting for around 12 hours before a dental procedure.

What are My Dental Sedation Options?

La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry offers several in-house sedation options:

1. Oral Sedation

Oral or “twilight” sedation comes in pill form and is administered before your procedure. You can expect to become more relaxed and sleepy. Even if you are not fully asleep, you will remain comfortable throughout your entire time in the dental chair.

This option is suitable for those with mild dental anxiety or those requiring extensive dental treatment. Oral sedation will take a few hours to wear off completely, so you’ll need someone to take you home after your appointment.

2. Inhaled Sedation

Nitrous oxide is typically administered through a nasal hood before and during your procedure. It will make you feel very relaxed, with many patients describing the feeling as happy or giddy.

This option also raises your pain tolerance and makes time pass more quickly. Laughing gas wears off immediately after oxygen is administered and is best for those with moderate to severe dental anxiety. Most adult patients who choose this sedation method can drive home after their procedure.

3. IV (Intravenous) Sedation

IV sedation, also known as “twilight sleep” or conscious sedation, is administered intravenously. Unlike with general anesthesia, you will feel no pain but can breathe comfortably on your own.

There are fewer risks compared to general anesthesia, and you will experience fewer complications, like grogginess and nausea. However, you can expect to feel the effects of IV sedation for a little while after your visit and will need a driver if you choose this option.

Deciding on the suitable sedation method relies on several factors, including your level of dental anxiety. Dr. Kohani will discuss your previous dental experiences during your consultation to determine the best solution for your needs.

If you’re one of the many who dread visiting the dentist and want to learn more about sedation dentistry, call 858-295-0603 to reach our San Diego Dental office.

858-295-0603

Sedation Dentistry FAQ

The cost of sedation dentistry can vary depending on your needs. Dr. Kohani will provide you with a detailed price quote during your consultation.

Sedation dentistry will provide you with the oral care you need and help you effectively reduce your fear of the dentist, making your oral care easier.

Sedation dentistry is recommended if you have dental anxiety or a phobia that may prevent you from receiving dental care. It is essential to mention your fears of the dentist immediately so we can work toward making you as comfortable as possible from the beginning of your appointment until the end.

It is important to note that sedation is not anesthesia; it allows you to remain awake but relaxed and comfortable during your procedure.

Sedation dentistry is safe for children. They are usually good candidates for this treatment, especially if they have high anxiety and fear of the dentist, require extensive dental services, or have difficulty sitting still.

Complications are unlikely to develop after a sedation dentistry procedure. However, temporary side effects may occur. These include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. If you are experiencing vomiting, pain, excessive bleeding, or a fever, contact the office immediately.

Choosing La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry for Dental Sedation in San Diego, CA

When you choose La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry for your dental sedation needs, you can rest assured that you or your loved one is in good hands. Dr. Kohani has the experience and skill needed for the safe administration of sedation and the ability to deliver excellent dental care and cosmetic results. If you’re ready to improve your oral health with the help of sedation dentistry, call 858-295-0603 today!