Sedation Dentistry
Orange, CA Dentist
 For many Americans, going to the dentist is a stressful experience. Even thinking about it can cause discomfort for some. But for others, dental anxiety is a very real fear. Dental anxiety is a common issue faced by many individuals, preventing them from seeking necessary dental care.
In Orange, CA, sedation dentistry has emerged as a popular solution to help patients overcome their fear of visiting the dentist. By understanding the various sedation options available, patients can make informed decisions about their dental care and alleviate their dental anxiety.
Experience Stress-Free Dental Visits with Sedation Dentistry
Dental anxiety refers to the stress or fear associated with dental visits, which can range from mild unease to severe anxiety. This can lead to dental phobia, a more intense fear that causes people to avoid the dentist altogether. Such fears often stem from past traumatic experiences, fear of pain, or even the sound of dental instruments. Regardless of the cause, avoiding dental care can lead to serious oral health issues. That is why here at Charlie Hsieh Dental Corporation we offer sedation dentistry for our patients.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is sometimes known as sleep dentistry and uses medication to invoke a highly relaxed state in patients. Except for patients who are under a general anesthetic, patients are awake with sedation dentistry.
One of the advances in modern dentistry is with sedation techniques. For anyone who is dental phobic or apprehensive about dental treatment, sedation can alleviate fear, ensuring they can visit the dentist regularly, and keep on top of their oral health needs.
The use of one or more medications before or during your oral surgery can offer a number of benefits. Your sedation options include those that are very mild and those that will allow you to sleep for the duration of your treatment. Individual patient needs differ, so the sedation type that is recommended for you may differ from that which was recommended for another patient undergoing the very same procedure. Charlie Hsieh Dental Corporation offers a range of sedation options to our patients.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Although sedation dentistry is usually administered to patients who are fearful of going to the dentist, it may also be appropriate in other circumstances. If you have a low pain threshold, sensitive teeth, an oversensitive gag reflex, find it difficult to sit still in the dentist's chair, or need a large amount of dental work, you may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry.
Types of Sedation We Offer
There are several different levels of sedation including minimal sedation, moderate sedation (conscious sedation), deep sedation, and general anesthesia. The type the dentist uses for you depends on your procedure, as well as the amount of anxiety you are feeling.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It helps patients feel relaxed and at ease during dental procedures. One of the key benefits of nitrous oxide is that it wears off quickly, allowing patients to drive themselves home after the appointment. It's an excellent option for those with mild to moderate dental anxiety.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative pill before the dental procedure. This type of sedation can range from minimal to moderate, depending on the dosage. Patients remain awake but feel significantly relaxed and may not remember much of the procedure afterward. Oral sedation is ideal for individuals with moderate to severe dental anxiety who require more than nitrous oxide to feel comfortable.
Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation is a step further than oral sedation, often involving a combination of oral medication and nitrous oxide. Patients remain conscious but are in a deeply relaxed state. They can respond to verbal cues but may have little to no memory of the procedure. Conscious sedation is suitable for those with a high level of dental phobia or who need extensive dental work.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is a deeper form of sedation where medication is administered intravenously. It induces a state of deep relaxation, and while patients are still conscious, they often feel as if they are asleep. This method allows the dentist to adjust the level of sedation as needed during the procedure. IV sedation is often recommended for those with severe dental phobia or for complex dental procedures.
How to Prepare for Your Sedation Dentistry Appointment
To ensure a smooth and safe experience, patients should follow specific guidelines before undergoing sedation dentistry:
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Schedule a consultation with us to discuss your medical history, allergies, and any medications you are currently taking. This information helps us determine the safest sedation option for you. We will also perform a dental exam and likely take x-rays.
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Depending on the type of sedation, you may need to fast for a certain period before the procedure. We will provide specific instructions regarding food and drink restrictions.
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For oral and IV sedation, arrange for someone to drive you to and from the appointment, as the effects may linger for a few hours after the procedure.
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Follow any pre-operative instructions we prescribe to ensure a successful sedation experience. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
We understand that going to the dentist, as well as undergoing sedation, can cause many patients to become anxious. We are here to answer any questions you may have. We are frequently asked:
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
There is always a small risk with any medical or dental procedure, and it is the same with anesthesia. Our dentist, Charlie Hsieh, DDS, is trained and qualified to administer all types of sedation and will go through your medical history to determine that you are a suitable candidate. Some patients with certain medical conditions are more likely to develop complications from anesthesia so it is important you talk to us fully about your medical history.
Are Side Effects A Worry?
Some patients believe that the better direction for sedation is to be completely under and have zero awareness of the procedure. While this is an option for some patients and some types of oral surgery, the concern is that the stronger the sedation, the more potential there is for the patient to experience side-effects. We will discuss our recommendations for level of sedation depending on the procedure you will be having.
Discover more about the sedation options we offer at Charlie Hsieh Dental Corporation. Speak to a member of our team by calling us at (657) 822-0328 to schedule an appointment. |
