Sedation Dentistry Specialist

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medications to keep you relaxed during dental procedures. You’re not under general anesthesia, just sedation, which enables you to overcome much of your anxiety.

There are four levels of sedation dentistry, including:

• Nitrous oxide (minimal sedation): With nitrous oxide, you’re given a mixture of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen during your procedure and you’re awake but relaxed.
• Oral sedation (moderate sedation): With oral sedation, you’re given a pill to take prior to your procedure. Under moderate sedation, you’re relaxed and experience an amnesic effect so you don’t completely remember the procedure.
• Intravenous (IV) sedation or conscious sedation (deep sedation): For your safety, the team at the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry has a dental anesthesiologist administer your IV sedation and monitor you during the procedure. With IV sedation, you’re in a mild “twilight” sleep, on the cusp of consciousness.
• General anesthesia: With general anesthesia, you’re unconscious.

Who is certified to administer anesthesia?

Dr. Mahallati can prescribe oral sedatives that help you relax during your dental procedure. However, if your dental procedure requires IV sedation, Dr. Mahallati requests the assistance of a state-certified anesthesiologist. 

Will I be able to eat or drive after receiving dental sedation?

You should not drive for at least 24 hours after anesthesia has been administered. You can drink fluids and rapidly progress to full meals as soon as you feel up to it. This may be within an hour after a minor procedure.

Who benefits from sedation dentistry?

You may benefit from sedation dentistry if you experience dental anxiety while undergoing dental work. It can also be effective for those who have:

• Very sensitive teeth
• A severe gag reflex
• A low pain threshold.

Also, patients who are medically compromised benefit from sedation dentistry due to a lower anxiety level as well as being constantly monitored by an anesthesiologist. 

Is sedation dentistry safe?

There are risks involved with any type or level of anesthesia. However, sedation is very safe when administered by experienced dentists/anesthesiologists. It’s important to note that certain patients with serious medical conditions should contact their medical doctor prior to getting sedation, given their greater risk for developing complications.

To see if you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry, call the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry today or schedule an appointment online.