GENERAL DENTISTRY
Conscious Sedation dentistry in Chula Vista
CONSCIOUS SEDATION
AT OTAY LAKES DENTAL ARTS
TYPES OF SEDATION DENTISTRY
NITROUS OXIDE
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a colorless and odorless gas used in the lightest form of sedation dentistry in Eastlake. Laughing gas is prevalent because it’s safe and easy to control, even for children!
Unlike other sedations requiring IVs or injections, laughing gas is easily administered through a face mask. As you inhale nitrous oxide gradually slows your body’s reaction time. Without immediate responses to pain and fear, anxiety decreases, allowing you to coast through your dental appointment feeling calm and relaxed.
Laughing gas is also the first choice in dental sedation because it doesn’t knock you out or cause a lengthy recovery. You remain awake and alert while using laughing gas, but with the added benefit of feeling relaxed and unaware of pain. Nitrous oxide also wears off quickly, so you feel normal as you walk out of your procedure.
ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION
Oral conscious sedation is also a simple way to combat dental anxiety and bring more comfort to each dental appointment. It involves taking a small sedative pill at a predetermined time before your appointment, so a trusted family member or friend must drive you to and from your appointment to ensure safety.
You’ll take another sedative about an hour before your procedure. You’ll take another sedative to initiate the complete conscious sedation process. The sedative allows you to remain conscious throughout your appointment, but you will feel relaxed and at ease.
With the use of oral conscious sedation, you’ll know what’s happening without enduring any feelings of worry or anxiety. By the time your medication wears off, your appointment and reasons for concern will be over!
Remember that oral conscious sedation can’t be used if you’re pregnant or have preexisting health conditions like impaired kidney or liver function, congestive heart failure, or glaucoma.
INTRAVENOUS SEDATION
IV sedation is the most potent form of sedation dentistry. It’s reserved only for specific situations and procedures when laughing gas or oral conscious sedation can’t offer the level of sedation necessary. IV sedation works instantaneously to make patients less aware of their surroundings and prevent fear or anxiety.
Make sure your dentist is qualified to perform intravenous sedation and follow your preparation instructions carefully. It’s best not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before your procedure. You can expect to feel groggy when you wake up, so having a friend or family member drive you to and from the dentist’s office is essential.
SIGNS YOU NEED SEDATION DENTISTRY
- Trouble sleeping the night before your dental appointment
- Nervousness, rapid heartbeat, and the temptation to cry while waiting
- Becoming nauseous at the idea of going to the dentist
- Difficulty breathing when you think about visiting the dentist
- Skipping appointments and treatments to avoid the dentist’s chair
- Accepting pain, discomfort, and decay instead of making an appointment for treatment with the dentist
HOW TO CHOOSE A SEDATION DENTIST
Many dentists offer sedation dentistry, but which dentist best fits you? It’s essential to choose a sedation dentist who understands the overwhelming power of dental anxiety and provides a compassionate approach to help you receive the dental treatments you need.
At Otay Lakes Dental Arts, Dr. Miller and his team appreciate the importance of addressing dental anxiety. Dr. Miller promises the highest standards of care and uncompromising safety as he uses sedation dentistry to help you feel comfortable and relaxed during every appointment.
HOW TO KNOW IF SEDATION DENTIST RIGHT FOR YOU
You can trust Dr. Yaron Miller in sedation dentistry to make your comfort and well-being his top priority. Call (619) 216 – 3333 today to schedule your appointment and discuss your best sedation options.