Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to get through lengthy, invasive, or potentially painful dental procedures. That said, if you’re one of the millions of Americans experiencing some form of dental anxiety or fear, even a routine dental treatment can feel overwhelming and stressful.
At the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry, our prosthodontist, Dr. Ramin Mahallati, and our dental team offer sedation dentistry services at our office in Beverly Hills, California.
There are several types of sedation dentistry, ranging from nitrous oxide (commonly referred to as “laughing gas”) to IV sedation. In most cases, mild to moderate sedation, where the patient is either fully or partially conscious, is enough to get through standard dental procedures like fillings, extractions, dental implants, and some forms of oral surgery.
Nitrous oxide is the mildest form of sedation and is safe for children. It is a gas administered through a mask placed over the nose.
With oral sedation, a sedative is administered in pill form before the procedure. This is a moderate form of sedation designed to keep you comfortable and relaxed during your procedure. You’ll be awake, but the details and your time in the dentist’s chair might be fuzzy.
IV sedation is a deep form of sedation administered by a trained anesthesiologist. You won’t be fully unconscious but will experience the state known as “twilight sleep,” where it feels like you’re just on the edge of consciousness.
General anesthesia induces unconsciousness and is administered by a licensed anesthesiologist, usually in a hospital setting, just like with any general surgery.
If you’ve never used sedation dentistry in the past or have any questions or concerns about whether it’s right for you, contact us before your procedure to discuss your options.
Sedation dentistry is available to just about anyone. If you’ve put off dental treatment in the past or are avoiding the dentist due to fear, stress, or anxiety, sedation dentistry could help you get the oral health care you need.
While the thought of going to the dentist for preventive care or to address a specific oral health problem like a cavity or gum disease can be nerve-wracking, putting off dental treatment usually makes the problem harder and more expensive to treat the longer you wait.
Sedation dentistry is also a good option for children and adults with special needs, sensory issues, or sensitivity like an enhanced gag reflex.
With the right form of sedation, your next trip to the dentist will be pleasant and relaxing!
For more information about sedation dentistry and whether it’s a good option for you, contact the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahallati at our office in Beverly Hills.
