Sedation Dentistry Bixby Knolls, CA

If the thought of your next dental appointment or procedure has you feeling anxious or fearful, know you are not alone. Many people put off important dental procedures or avoid visiting the dentist at all due to anxiety and fear.

At Dentist of Bixby Knolls, we are here to help ease your fears about your next dental visit. With multiple options available, dental sedation can be a valuable tool to help you feel relaxed and calm about your next dental appointment or procedure.

What is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation refers to a variety of methods your dentist can use to reduce pain and ease anxiety during your next dental visit. Dental sedation is often referred to as “sleep dentistry” and can help you complete your next dental appointment with ease.

What is Conscious Sedation?

Conscious sedation refers to sedation methods that allow you to remain awake during a procedure. This method reduces pain and anxiety, helping you to feel relaxed and calm. This method can be induced using oral medication, anesthesia, or nitrous oxide gas. Conscious sedation is often used during routine procedures like dental cleanings, dental fillings, or root canals.

What is Twilight Sedation?

Twilight sedation refers to a dream-like state of sedation. You will feel drowsy and very relaxed, but still able to interact with your dentist and answer questions. Twilight sedation often results in no memory of the dental procedure or even the entire dental appointment. This method is induced using IV medications or nitrous oxide gas. This type of sedation is ideal for patients undergoing a longer dental procedure or those with strong gag reflexes or extreme tooth sensitivity.

What is Unconscious Sedation?

Unconscious sedation, otherwise known as general anesthesia, puts you fully to sleep during your procedure. You will not be aware of your dental procedure or able to respond. Unconscious sedation uses IV medications or a breathing mask to put you fully under during the entirety of the procedure. This method is often used for patients who experience extreme fear or anxiety, or those undergoing dental surgeries.

How Will I Receive Sedation Medication?

Sedation medications can be administered in multiple ways. Each sedation type has options so you and your dentist can choose which works best for you.

Oral Medication

Many sedation medications can be taken orally with a pill that is taken about an hour before your dental procedure begins. These medications are usually benzodiazepines which help you to relax.

How Will I Receive Sedation Medication Image

Nitrous Oxide Gas

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide gas is administered through a breathing mask and is a simple and effective sedation method, especially for children. Nitrous oxide gas is fast-acting and dissipates quickly after your procedure is finished.

IV Medications

IV, or intravenous, medications are administered directly into the bloodstream. This method is often used for twilight or unconscious sedation. IV medications often have fewer side effects than other types.

What Are the Side Effects
of Dental Sedation?

Side effects of dental sedation vary by sedation type. Conscious sedation usually yields few side effects as you remain fully awake during the procedure. Nitrous oxide gas dissipates and leaves your system quickly allowing you to resume normal functions almost immediately after your procedure. Oral and IV medications effects are longer lasting. These medication types usually require you to arrange someone to pick you up from your dental appointment to drive you home. After all dental sedation appointments, you should return home and rest for the remainder of the day.

Don’t Let Dental Anxiety Hold You Back

Do you think dental sedation may be right for you? Call us at (562) 287-5175 to speak with our staff about your options and to set up your next appointment today!

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