Sedation Dentistry FAQ
What are the dental sedation options available?
Overcoming dental fear is crucial for maintaining oral and overall health. Sedation dentistry is one of the best ways to overcome dental anxiety. Feel at ease with the sedation dentistry options below.
- Nitrous oxide: It involves inhaling nitrous oxide (laughing gas) through a mask placed on your nose. Inhalation sedation makes you feel calm and euphoric, although you’ll remain awake to communicate. The sedation effects dissipate immediately after removing the mask.
- Oral sedation: Sometimes, it only takes a simple oral pill to overcome your dental anxiety. The dentist prescribes an anti-anxiety pill taken about an hour before your treatment. Oral sedation makes you deeply calm. Often, you lose the passage of time, and you’ll feel like your treatment only took a few minutes. You’ll also remember little about your treatment.
- IV sedation: IV sedation is ideal for patients with severe dental fear or undergoing complex procedures like implant surgery. The sedation effects kick in within minutes, but we’ll gradually adjust the dosage until you reach the desired comfort level. Like oral sedation, you’ll remember scanty details about treatment.
Why do I have dental fear?
It’s normal to experience mild uneasiness before a dental visit. However, if you experience a racing heart, sweaty palms, or sleepless nights before your appointment, it’s a sign of dental fear. Sometimes, the dental anxiety can be so overwhelming that you postpone your dental visit altogether, which deteriorates your oral health.
So, why do you have dental fear? Dental phobia can originate from several sources, including past undesirable experiences, fear of needles, and low tolerance to pain. Some patients also develop dental fear from perceived discomfort from dental treatments or embarrassment from the current state of their oral health.
How long does sedation last?
The effects of sedation differ based on the method used; nitrous oxide dissipates quickly once the mask is removed. This way, you can drive yourself home after treatment. The effects of oral and IV sedation last several hours after the procedure. You need someone to escort you to and from your appointment. Furthermore, avoid driving, alcohol intake, or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours until the sedation effects wear off.
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
Sedation dentistry numbs your senses so you won’t feel discomfort during treatment. Our team will also administer local anesthetics to enhance your comfort.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes! All forms of sedation dentistry are the product of rigorous research and testing to ensure they deliver the safest outcomes. Although sedation dentistry is generally safe, it must be administered by trained personnel. Our team adjusts and monitors sedation to ensure patients enjoy safe and effective outcomes. Additionally, we conduct a thorough assessment of your health before treatment to evaluate your eligibility for sedation.
Am I a suitable candidate for sedation dentistry?
If you are in Manhattan Beach, California, call 310-340-6663 to schedule an appointment with Manhattan Beach Dental Solutions. We will evaluate your dental needs and determine if sedation dentistry is right for you. Let us help you overcome your dental fears!
If you’re missing any teeth, schedule a consultation with the dental team at Manhattan Beach Dental Solutions. Call us at
310-340-6663
