Dental anxiety is a type of anxiety that occurs when a patient has a fear of the dentist. This anxiety can make having a dental procedure difficult or even impossible. Patients who experience dental anxiety also tend to put off visits to the dentist, which only makes their dental anxiety worse.
Many patients come to our office for sedation dentistry because they are nervous about having dental treatments. We understand that some patients are apprehensive about visiting the dentist, so we offer a variety of sedation options to help put you at ease while you’re with us. There are three types of sedation dentistry options. They include:
IV sedation is administered by a trained professional, and the patient cannot leave the office until the effects of the sedative have completely worn off. The patient must remain awake during this type of sedation, but they will not feel any pain during the procedure and will not remember any of the treatment afterward. Some patients do experience nausea or vomiting after a procedure with IV sedation.
The process starts with an IV being inserted into a patient’s arm or hand. The medicine is then delivered through the IV line over the course of the amount of time needed to complete the procedure. After the procedure is complete, this IV is removed, and recovery can begin. This type of sedation is sometimes referred to as “twilight” sedation because of the effect it has on patients – some even fall asleep during treatment.
Although it is considered a safe form of sedation by dentists who are trained in its use, it does come with certain risks. It is important for patients who choose this option to discuss all of their medical history with their dentist ahead of time, including whether or not they are pregnant or suffer from any medical conditions that could put their health at risk if they receive this form of sedation. Also, patients must not drive after receiving this form of sedation, so they must make plans to have someone drive them home after treatment.
Oral sedatives, also known as conscious oral sedation, are great for patients who feel nervous or anxious because they can relax during their procedure while remaining awake. Our dentist in Los Angeles will prescribe an oral medication for you to take before you arrive for your treatment. By the time you sit down in one of our comfortable chairs, you’ll feel calm and relaxed. You’ll also receive amnesiac medications that will prevent you from remembering your procedure, so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during your treatment. You simply won’t remember a thing!
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide sedation is administered using a mask that covers your nose. The dentist will control the amount of sedation you receive throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort. This type of sedation wears off quickly after the procedure is done and your breathing returns to normal. During your appointment, however, you will feel relaxed and may even fall asleep. You will still have all your protective reflexes so the dentist can perform dental care while you rest comfortably through the appointment.
To find out more about the dental services we offer at DTLA Smile, Los Angeles, CA, call (213) 688-2828 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit Dentist Los Angeles, CA, at 104 West 7th St, #2 Los Angeles, CA, 90014.
0 comments