Very few Monrovia patients enjoy going to the dentist, but some have such a high level of anxiety that even the thought of a simple filling makes them shudder. Instead of grinning and bearing it, patients can now feel at ease during any procedure with sedation dentistry.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
There are various different types of sedation available to patients, which affect the body in different ways. The three main types of sedation are:
- Nitrous oxide: The lightest form of sedation, patients become more relaxed from breathing in nitrous oxide (laughing gas) through a mask placed over the nose. The effects are short-term and wear off within minutes of removing the mask.
- Oral sedation: Comes in a pill form that patients need to take an hour before their procedure. Once it takes effect, patients remain awake but blissfully unbothered by the dental procedure. It will take longer for this form of anesthesia to wear off.
- IV sedation: A stronger and faster-acting alternative to oral sedation, patients receive anesthesia through an IV rather than a pill.
Sedation dentistry tends to focus on the first two options since they are milder and more effective when combined with local anesthesia.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is an option for all patients, but selecting the right type of sedation is important. Monrovia patients should consider sedation dentistry if they have:
- Extensive dental work planned
- Low pain tolerance
- Tooth sensitivity
- Trouble remaining motionless
For most Monrovia patients, nitrous oxide is usually sufficient, however, if you have severe dental anxiety, oral sedation is a better option.
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Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Children?
Kids may seem like the ideal candidates for sedation dentistry based on the description above, but there are limits to the type of sedation that can be administered based on the child’s age.
Dr. Q offers her pediatric patients nitrous oxide, the mildest form of sedation, to help them calm down and make the experience more pleasant for them. Because this type of sedation wears off quickly and has no negative side effects, unlike other forms of sedation, your child will be back to his or her normal self within a few minutes after treatment.
How Will I Be Evaluated for Sedation Dentistry?
Every one of Dr. Q’s patients goes through a comprehensive oral examination before any procedure. This treatment phase includes reviewing your medical history and any conditions that may pose a higher risk for complications. Anesthesia is a safe and effective procedure, but it can be riskier for patients with:
- Sleep apnea
- Obesity
These patients may still be able to undergo anesthesia as long as they understand the benefits and risks associated with this treatment.
When Will the Effects of Sedation Dentistry Wear Off?
The time it takes for sedation dentistry to wear off depends on which type you choose. Our office offers both nitrous oxide and an oral sedative to calm patients. During your initial consultation with Dr. Q, she will review each sedative’s pros and cons and explain the procedure to help you decide.
Most Monrovia patients prefer nitrous oxide when possible because it wears off within five minutes of ceasing treatment, and you can drive yourself home after the procedure. However, we understand that some patients find all dental procedures extremely stressful and will recommend an oral sedative to relax them more completely. The drawback to this option is that you will not be able to drive yourself home and will need to sleep off the sedative.
More About Our Practice
Our dental practice is family-friendly and offers dental care for all ages. Many of our Monrovia patients bring in their children for treatment, and we’ve seen some of our first patients grow from toddlers to teens.
Dr. Q has practiced general and cosmetic dentistry at her private practice for over ten years. During that time, she has established herself in the community and participates in several non-profit organizations.
For more information about your treatment options or to schedule an initial consultation, call our office in the Monrovia area at (626) 599-9819.
