Anesthesia and Sedation Dentistry in Los Angeles, CA
For many children and adults, getting dental work is among their greatest fears. Whether they had a previous negative experience or are basing this opinion on word of mouth, dental visits can result in high levels of apprehension and even panic attacks.
Local anesthesia is typically used for dental procedures, and while this helps to ensure that you will not feel any pain, it does nothing to relieve the anxiety patients may be experiencing.
Under local anesthesia, you or your child will be awake and fully conscious during the procedure which can be distressing for patients with fear and anxiety. Deeper levels of sedation are available for patients who experience this fear to ensure that their dental procedure is both physically and emotionally painless.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
With sedation dentistry, medication is provided to enhance your level of comfort and relaxation during a dental procedure. Utilizing deeper levels of sedation results in less anxiety, awareness, and recall.
Sedation dentistry is safe, and your health will be closely monitored for the duration of your treatment.
Sedation Dentistry Can…
- Ensure a comfortable procedure – While the local anesthetic will prevent physical pain, anxiety can lead to an exaggerated pain response and make your dental procedure seem more uncomfortable than it really is. Sedation dentistry can improve your dental experience.
- Ease anxiety and tension – A large portion of the population has an innate fear of the dentist, dental procedures, and dental tools, so you or your loved one is not alone. Sedation dentistry can help limit this worry and discomfort during the treatment.
- Ease the minds of fearful children – Many children have a temporary fear of the dentist and subjecting them to dental procedures during this time can cause this anxiety to become permanent.
- Assist those with pre-existing medical conditions and those who may have difficulty with local anesthesia – Patients with hypertension, certain cardiac conditions, and people who have sensitivities or allergies to local anesthetics.
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry for Yourself or Your Child?
There are many reasons to choose sedation dentistry. The following three dental facts will help explain why:
- Proper dental care is not only essential to keep your smile healthy, bright, and beautiful. Maintaining ideal oral health also helps ensure your physical well-being. Several recent clinical studies have shown a close relationship between gum health and systemic disease.
- Children and adults who avoid the dentist due to anxiety and fear are far more likely to skip one or more dental visits, which can lead to more invasive procedures being needed to restore badly damaged teeth.
- Choosing a dentist like Dr.Salamati, who offers dental sedation, will decrease the likelihood of developing the inevitable oral health problems and ease your dental fears.
Your Dental Sedation and Anesthesia Options
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent mixed with oxygen. You will remain conscious with this type of anesthesia as you inhale the sedative through a mask fitted over your nose to help you relax during your procedure.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves orally taking medication in pill form before your procedure to help you relax. Various medication options and dosages are available based on the extent of your treatment and anxiety.
Moderate Sedation
Moderate sedation is commonly known as “conscious sedation” or “twilight sleep.” With this type of anesthesia, you will not be unconscious but deeply relaxed. You may not remember the procedure after the sedation wears off.
General Anesthesia
If you are put under general anesthesia, you will remain unconscious for the entire duration of the procedure. As you are asleep, you will be completely unresponsive to commands and unable to be roused by painful stimuli. Medication can be received intravenously or inhaled, and our anesthesiologist monitors your vital signs closely.
Sedation Dentistry FAQ
Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
The medication and treatment for sedation dentistry are billed separately from your dental procedure but may be covered by your insurance. You should contact your insurance provider to see if your sedation dentistry will be covered. If you or your children have any special needs, be sure the dental office is aware of this, so they can include this information when authorization is required.
Will I be monitored when under sedation dentistry?
A licensed dentist and board-certified dental anesthesiologist will administer the sedation or anesthesia and remain during the procedure to ensure that you are safe and that there are no unexpected complications. Blood pressure, pulse, and blood-oxygen levels are all closely monitored during the procedure.
What procedures can be performed under sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can be beneficial during any dental procedure that may stimulate fear and anxiety. Some of these procedures include gum surgeries, extractions, dental implant surgeries, deep cleanings, and other prolonged dental procedures.
Can I drive after sedation dentistry?
After nitrous oxide sedation, you will be able to drive yourself home. However, with oral sedation, moderate / IV sedation, and general anesthesia, a driver will be necessary to take you home after your procedure, as the medication will qualify you as legally intoxicated. You will feel fine, just a little tired, when you leave the office.
Can my child safely undergo sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is safe for children and ideal for those who are nervous or anxious about their dental procedure. Sedation dentistry can provide a stress-free experience for both you and your child.
Dr. Salamati | Your Beverly Hills, CA Sedation Dentistry Provider
One of Dr. Salamati’s sedation dentistry options is sure to meet your needs; general anesthesia is also available when necessary.
Dr. Salamati provides high-quality dental care, including a range of anesthesia and dental sedation options for patients in Beverly Hills and the greater Los Angeles area. Call our office today at (424) 379-3456 to schedule a visit!