Sedation Dentistry in Long Beach

Sedation Dentistry

Up to 15% of the population is fearful of going to the dentist. Fear of dentists is a tired fad, but it is a severe issue that causes many people to have poor oral health. Those who are afraid of going to the dentist frequently postpone going until their pain and other symptoms have subsided, causing irreversible damage to their teeth and mouth.

If you have dental anxiety, you are likely worried about the state of your smile, especially if you haven’t seen your dentist in a long time. You may already be dealing with dental issues like chronic toothache, gum disease, or tooth decay which need to be addressed, but you’re doing everything you can to avoid scheduling a dentist appointment.

Countless people who have dental anxiety alter the foods they eat, the way they speak or even become dependent on pain relievers before accepting defeat and seeking professional help. Fortunately, sedation dentistry is an option.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry refers to using medications to induce a state of tranquility in a patient before their dentist appointment. This might be for a simple routine dental check-up, a relatively minor repair, or a major procedure. The level of sedation used varies depending on two factors: the patient’s level of fear and the gravity of the procedure being carried out by our team.

Sedation dentistry is frequently recommended for patients who have cognitive impairment or physical disabilities, making it extremely difficult for them to endure a regular dentist appointment. This is usually due to their inability to understand or comply with directives such as sitting still or keeping their mouth open.

Types of Sedation

There are varying types of sedation readily accessible, allowing us to tailor the level of sedation you require to your specific needs. A routine dental check-up, for instance, could only require light sedation, while a tooth extraction, which is longer and more invasive, may require the use of deep sedation.

Light Sedation – This usually requires the administration of nitrous oxide gas, also known as laughing gas, through a mask placed over your nose. Sedation only lasts as long as you inhale the gas, as the effects wear off almost instantly. You will feel light-headed but relaxed, and you will be completely aware of what is happening around you.

Moderate Sedation – entails patients taking a pill/capsule about an hour before their dentist appointment. This creates a dream-like effect, keeping you calm and comfortable throughout your appointment. You will be aware of what is happening, but will not be under any type of pain. The effects may last for several hours, and you will need to be driven home after your dentist appointment.

Deep Sedation – is administered intravenously through a cannula inserted into the back of your hand. Patients are mounted on the verge of consciousness, making it impossible to tell what is going on around them. You will also have no recollection of the procedure. Again, the effects can last for several hours, so you’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure.

If your dental health is suffering the consequences of your fear of going to the dentist, you could benefit from sedation dentistry. Our sedation dental team will explain the various types of sedation to you in greater detail and advise the one that is best suited to your needs. Call our Long Beach, CA office today to make an appointment.