Relax in the Dental Chair with Sedation Dentistry
Millions of Americans suffer from dental anxiety. For some, the stress and fear of visiting the dental office can be overwhelming and keep them from receiving the care they need to maintain oral health. At Dr. Bostani’s Advanced Dental in Burbank, California, we understand the struggle that comes with dental anxiety, which is why we offer a range of sedation dentistry options. With the help of sedation, we can help get you back in the dentist’s chair, which will improve your overall health and wellness.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Dental sedation is a range of techniques and treatments that help relax patients before and during various dental procedures. The different types of sedation vary in strength and use, allowing us to recommend them based on your unique situation.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is one of the most common and effective ways to help reduce dental anxiety. Also called laughing gas, it’s a mild sedative that can be used during a wide range of standard dental procedures. The gas is administered through a breathing apparatus that fits over the nose. Once we begin administering the nitrous oxide, its effects can be felt immediately. One of the most significant advantages of nitrous oxide is that it wears off quickly, so patients can drive themselves to and from the procedure. It can also be used in combination with oral conscious sedation.
Oral Conscious Sedation
The next level of sedation is oral conscious sedation. This method utilizes a prescription sedative that is taken before coming into the office for the procedure. Because the sedative is taken at home, patients will need to arrange transportation to and from treatment. Oral conscious sedation has an amnesic effect, so while patients remain awake for the procedure, there will be little to no memory of it. After the treatment, patients may feel drowsy for several hours, but the effects will completely wear off by the following day.
IV Sedation
This type of sedation provides patients with the deepest level of relaxation. It’s ideal for individuals facing extensive or lengthy dental procedures or those with extreme dental phobia. IV sedation is administered through a thin needle placed into a vein on the arm or back of the hand. Patients will have little to no awareness of their surroundings and complete relaxation of the body. While under IV sedation, we continually monitor the patient’s vital signs. Patients who choose IV sedation will also need to arrange for transportation home following the procedure.
Want to learn more about sedation or sleep dentistry? Give us a call
At Dr. Bostani’s Advanced Dental in Burbank, CA, we want to ease the impact of dental anxiety. For more information about your sedation options, call us at (818) 918-5533.