Sedation Dentistry in Carlsbad, CA

Sedation dentistry is a special category of dentistry that utilizes medications to help patients relax during dental procedures. It allows dentists to perform complex dental procedures on patients who may be nervous or anxious about treatment. Patients who have dental phobias or anxiety, have a sensitive gag reflex, or have difficulty getting numb are excellent candidates for sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry is offered to patients of all ages. 

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry involves administering medication to help patients relax during dental treatments. There are three primary types of sedation dentistry: nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.

Nitrous oxide

General sedation can be achieved with nitrous oxide. This sedation option tends to be the most mild of the three. Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen. Patients inhale the sedative through a mask while dentists control the dosage. The patient remains conscious throughout the entire procedure; however, he or she will be more relaxed and comfortable. The patient regains normal breathing within a few minutes after the mask is removed.

Oral sedation

Oral sedation is a two-part process. The patient has prescribed a medication to take before his or her appointment. He or she arrives to the office about 30 minutes early, and the dental team administers another medication. The patient may feel drowsy or a little “out of it” and might not remember much about the appointment.

General anesthesia

General anesthesia can be administered through an IV (intravenous) . You will usually be required to fast (go without eating or drinking) for a certain period of time prior to the procedure.

General anesthesia renders a patient unconscious and unable to feel pain during dental treatment. The medication works quickly and can be reversed if too much has been administered.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe when administered by a dentist who has received the proper training to safely administer sedation. Your vital signs will be closely monitored during your appointment, and you will be continually monitored until your appointment is complete. At your appointment, our team will review your health history and make sure that any medications you are taking will not interfere with your sedation.

Hollander Dental Associates, located in Carlsbad, CA  is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for the patients. Call us at (760) 434-2526 and schedule an appointment with the dentist Carlsbad, CA to know more about dental treatments.