Anxiety about going to the dentist is common. Approximately 20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist altogether because of fear or anxiety, leading to numerous long-term dental problems. We offer cutting-edge sedation dentistry techniques to ensure your dental experience is painless, comfortable, and relaxing.
Enjoy a Relaxing Dental Experience
Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people put off going to the dentist. As many as 30 to 40 million adults in the U.S. avoid seeing a dentist because of fear and anxiety. Fortunately, there’s a solution that can help you relax and even enjoy your dental visit: sedation dentistry in San Diego. Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center offers different types of sedation, such as nitrous oxide and oral sedation, to help you feel more comfortable during your procedure.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help you relax during dental procedures. There are different types of sedation, ranging from mild to deep. With mild sedation, you remain awake but feel no anxiety or discomfort during the treatment. With moderate sedation, you may feel drowsy and not remember anything later. And deep sedation puts you to sleep completely. The type of sedation used will depend on the type of procedure and your level of anxiety.
Candidates for Sedation Dentistry:
- Have phobias related to dental treatments
- Have extreme oral sensitivity
- Have had bad experiences with dentists previously
- Avoid visiting dentists because of fear or anxiety
- Have a small oral cavity that’s difficult to access comfortably
- Have general anxiety disorders
- Want a comfortable and relaxing dental treatment
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry:
- Helps you relax during dental procedures
- Reduces or eliminates pain during dental procedures
- Reduces or eliminates gagging during dental procedures
- Reduces or eliminates fear and anxiety about dental procedures
- Makes long or complex procedures feel shorter
- Helps dentists complete procedures more efficiently
- Removes the mental block to visiting a dentist for regular teeth cleanings
- Helps you maintain optimal oral health in the long run
Types of Sedation Dentistry:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is the most common type of sedation dentistry in San Diego. Nitrous oxide is a gas that is inhaled through a mask that is placed over the nose. The gas makes you feel lightheaded and relaxed, but you can still respond to questions and follow directions during the procedure.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is taken in pill form before the procedure. The medication can make you drowsy, and you may fall asleep during the procedure. You may need someone to drive you home after the procedure because the medication’s effects can last several hours. This is referred to as moderate sedation.
Intravenous Sedation
Intravenous sedation is given through a needle placed in your arm. The medication is given through the IV, and it works quickly to make you feel relaxed. You may not remember the procedure after it is over. This is also another form of moderate sedation.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is the strongest form of sedation, and it’s also known as sleep dentistry. You’ll be unconscious during the procedure and need someone to drive you home afterward. This sedation dentistry in San Diego is only reserved for invasive dental procedures and surgeries, such as dental implant surgery or bone grafting.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Will I be completely unconscious during sedation?
During sedation dentistry, you won’t be fully unconscious. Instead, you’ll be in a relaxed and drowsy state, able to respond to commands but with reduced awareness and memory of the procedure. It ensures a comfortable experience while maintaining your safety.
Can children undergo sedation dentistry?
Yes, children can undergo sedation dentistry, but it typically requires special consideration and expertise. Pediatric dentists may use milder forms of sedation to alleviate anxiety and ensure a positive dental experience for kids.
Is sedation dentistry the same as general anesthesia?
No, sedation dentistry is not the same as general anesthesia. Sedation keeps you in a relaxed, semi-conscious state, whereas general anesthesia renders you completely unconscious. Sedation is milder and often preferred for less invasive dental procedures.
How long does the effect of dental sedation last?
The duration of dental sedation effects varies depending on the type used. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, while oral sedatives may last a few hours. IV sedation can linger longer, so it’s essential to follow post-procedure guidelines and avoid strenuous activities. If you request sedation dentistry in San Diego, we will first go over all options and the effects.
Can I drive home after a sedation dentistry appointment?
It’s generally unsafe to drive after sedation dentistry. The lingering effects and potential drowsiness mean you should arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and monitor you for a few hours post-procedure.
What should I eat or drink before a sedation dentistry procedure?
Your dentist will provide specific pre-sedation guidelines. Typically, it’s recommended to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure, especially if you’re having IV sedation, to reduce the risk of nausea.
Will I remember the dental procedure if I'm sedated?
Most patients won’t remember the details of the dental procedure while under sedation. Sedation induces amnesia, ensuring a more comfortable experience and reducing anxiety associated with dental visits.
Can I request a specific type of sedation for my dental treatment?
Yes, you can request a specific type of sedation based on your needs and the complexity of the procedure. Discuss your concerns and preferences with your dentist, who will recommend the most suitable options for sedation dentistry in San Diego.
Dr. Roya Mirkhan
Dr. Roya Mirkhan is a distinguished San Diego-based dentist with over 20 years of experience helping thousands of patients. She has first-hand extensive experience with sedation dentistry and has perfected this procedure so that her patients can remain calm and relaxed throughout the dental session. Dr. Mirkhan, recognized as one of “America’s Top Dentists,” holds a Master of Science Degree in Oral Biology, enabling her to excel in this specialized field. She leads the team at the Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center, focusing heavily on providing patients with a comfortable and stress-free dental experience. No matter your circumstance or concerns, Dr. Mirkhan prides herself on resolving any worries so that you can successfully resolve oral or dental issues in a relaxed frame of mind.
Why Choose Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center?
Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center is a cosmetic, periodontal, and dental implant specialty practice led by a highly-skilled Scripps affiliated dentist with 20+ years of experience. We believe your dental experience should be relaxing, comfortable, and painless and that you should have no reservations about visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. To that end, we offer sedation dentistry in San Diego, as well as general care and comfort to make you feel at ease. Please schedule an appointment to explore your sedation dentistry options in San Diego.
