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Posted by Nimesh Patel 2023-03-02

Dental anxiety is a fear of the dentist or any type of dental procedure. It affects millions of Americans and can be quite debilitating. But, with sedation dentistry, patients can undergo dental procedures without feeling anxious.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a branch of dental care that is focused on helping patients achieve a state of relaxation and comfort throughout their treatment. This can be achieved through the use of oral sedatives, anxiety-relieving medications, or even nitrous gas for patients who are particularly nervous about their upcoming procedure. Patients with mild or moderate dental anxiety tend to benefit most from sedation dentistry, allowing them to receive dental treatments that might otherwise have been postponed due to fear and discomfort.

Unfortunately, many patients who experience dental fear put off routine preventive care and examination appointments with a general dentist out of fear of a potentially painful checkup. Over time, this can lead to serious oral health concerns that require more costly restorative care. Luckily, the compassionate team at our practice understands how inconvenient it can be for patients to experience dental anxiety. That is why we are proud to offer sedation dentistry at our practice in Irvine, CA, to help our patients feel at ease during their visit. 

Is Sedation Dentistry Right for Me?

If you suffer from anxiety or fear the dentist, then sedation dentistry may be right for you. When you have had traumatic experiences at the dentist in the past, it can be very hard to make yourself return. But the longer you put it off, the worse the problem can become. By the time patients finally decide to visit a dentist again, they may find that they need extensive treatment. At Dental 2000 Implant Center, we have helped many patients overcome their fears and feel more comfortable in the dental chair through the use of sedation dentistry. Most sedatives can be taken by mouth and will take effect within minutes. Once patients are relaxed and comfortable, we can begin providing any necessary dental treatments. 

What Are the Different Types of Sedation Dentistry?

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a type of conscious sedative that is taken in the form of a pill by mouth. The pill will induce a relaxed, drowsy state to help you remain comfortable during your dental procedure. Oral medication isn’t as strong as other types of sedatives, so patients are still awake and able to respond to directions from the dentist during treatment. However, you may still experience some amnesia as well as an inability to remember parts of the dental procedure. 

Nitrous Oxide

Sometimes referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that we use during some dental procedures. It is inhaled through a small nasal mask that is placed over your nose and mouth. You will be awake and responsive throughout the procedure but you will feel calm and will relax. At the end of your treatment, the mask will be taken off and you will return to a normal state of consciousness. The effects of nitrous oxide are quick wearing and you will be able to drive yourself home after your appointment.

Intravenous Sedation

Intravenous sedation is the deepest level of sedation we offer at our dental office in Irvine, CA. With IV sedation, you will be taken into a separate room to snooze away while we work on your smile! We will monitor you with a heart monitor and pulse oximeter to ensure that your body can process the sedatives properly. Feel free to bring a friend or family member to accompany you to your appointment. 

Visit Dental 2000 33 Creek Rd #210-B, Irvine, CA 92604, or call (949) 857-6757 to book an appointment.

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Location

39 Creek Rd Suite #210,
Irvine, CA 92604

Office Hours

MON - FRI9:00 am-6:00 pm

SAT - SUNClosed

Location

30012 Crown Valley Pkwy Suite B,
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Office Hours

MON - FRI9:00 am-5:00 pm

SAT - SUNClosed

IRVINE, CA

LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA