Sedation Dentistry

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry refers to techniques that allow you to feel more relaxed at the dentist. It’s common to request sedation if going to the dentist makes you anxious, but they can come in handy for anyone who’d like to feel more comfortable and safe at the office.

Sedation dentistry can help you if:

• You have a low pain tolerance or threshold
• Your teeth or gums are highly sensitive
• You haven’t been to the dentist in a long time
• You feel overwhelmed in the dental chair
• Your gag reflex is overactive
• You’re afraid of shots or drills
• The sounds of dental tools make you uncomfortable

It’s common for adults to avoid going to the dentist for one or more of these reasons. Doing so can have serious effects on your teeth and gums. Sedation dentistry allows you to get the care you need.

Sedation dentistry isn’t just for involved dental work. Ramona Family Dentistry offers them for any procedure, including routine cleanings. They’re also common for more complex procedures, including the placement of implants, crowns, bridges, and veneers.

Don’t be embarrassed if you think you might need sedation, and be sure to bring up your concerns with your dentist. What’s important is that you don’t let your fears stop you from getting the care you need.

What is oral sedation?

Ramona Family Dentistry provides oral sedation, which doesn’t put you to sleep. You take a sedative, anti-anxiety pill before your procedure.

The sedative puts you in a relaxed, dream-like state. You can still respond to commands and answer questions, though you may end up falling asleep on your own. Afterward, you have little to no memory of the procedure.

Your dentist can answer any questions you have about the specific sedative medication you receive during your procedure. To maximize your comfort, your dentist may also use a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

The Ramona Family Dentistry team uses sedation cautiously and makes patient safety their first priority. They screen each patient for any medical conditions that may interfere with you safely receiving sedation. 

The practice staff aims to use the lowest level of sedation necessary to help you get through the procedure. They review all sedation techniques and dental procedures and make sure you know what to expect and agree to all dental work. Your comfort is their first priority, and they closely monitor you during your sedation dentistry procedure.

To get home safely, you’ll need to arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home from your procedure. Oral sedation can make you drowsy for several hours after your procedure. Your dentist goes over any preparations you need to safely undergo sedation dentistry, which may include fasting before your procedure.

To learn more about sedation dentistry, call the office of Ramona Family Dentistry, or use the online booking tool.