SEDATION DENTISTRY
Although dentistry has progressed in many ways over the years in terms of precision, pain-free practices, shorter recovery times and more, many people still find it to be intimidating and stressful. While a number procedures in dentistry use anesthesia, some individuals may prefer added comfort. For many patients in a dental office, their physical and emotional senses may be heightened due to anxiety, which can result in hypersensitive gag reflexes and many more unwanted feelings.
At Salo & Salo, we offer effective sedation dentistry in Los Angeles for patients with severe anxieties. From a simple administration of nitrous oxide to an in-office dental anesthesiologist, our team is licensed and highly trained in administering different types of sedation options for patients who may feel anxious and seek added comfort throughout their visit with us. If you are interested in sedation dentistry in Beverly Hills, our team is here to ensure that you receive the necessary dental care while providing the comfort that you need to put your worries to rest.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the administration of sedatives, otherwise known as anesthesia, which entails a semi-conscious state that helps to reduce anxiety, awareness of pain and recall. There are a number of sedatives that we offer to provide our patients with the comfort that they need to make the process as seamless as possible. Some examples of sedatives include Valium, Brevital and others. Valium is administered to create a more relaxed state and environment through dental treatments. Brevital is administered, which results in a deeper sleep.
Types of Sedatives
Nitrous Oxide: Nitrous oxide, a mild sedative, otherwise referred to as “laughing gas,” is inhaled into the nose and places the patient into a deep state of relaxation. Patients are still able to communicate throughout the procedure, but many quickly drift off into a light sleep. This form of sedation takes effect immediately and typically wears off as soon as the procedure is complete. Most patients are able to drive themselves home after the procedure with nitrous oxide.
Conscious Sedation Dentistry: Conscious sedation dentistry is a moderate form of sedation, which is given by taking a small pill an hour before the procedure. This form of sedation puts patients in an extreme state of relaxation without the need for an IV. Because patients who receive this form of sedation must take the medication an hour prior to arriving at the office, someone will need to drive you. For patients who choose conscious sedation, they are still able to communicate while being in a deeply relaxed state. After the procedure, most patients do not remember the procedure taking place.
IV Sedation: For patients who suffer from an extreme level of dental anxiety and fear, intravenous (IV) sedation can be highly effective. IV sedation is administered by an experienced anesthesiologist, which gives the dentist the opportunity to perform more complex procedures. Throughout the procedure, patients are completely unconscious and will not have any memory of the procedure after they wake. Patients often feel groggy after they wake. Patients who plan to receive IV sedation should make transportation arrangements from their appointment.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
There are many great benefits of sedation dentistry, including:
Eliminates anxiety and fear of dental procedures
A pain-free dental treatment
Little to no memory of dental treatment
Effective treatment process
How is Sedation Administered?
Typically, sedatives and anesthetic medications are administered intravenously (IV). Because they are administered through an IV, the effects are immediate and smooth. Our dentists carefully and precisely administer the exact amount of medication so that you feel relaxed and comfortable. The great thing about administering sedatives through an IV is that if more is necessary during the dental treatment, we can easily add more medication to ensure that your experience maintains its relaxing and comfortable state. Sedatives are also administered through nitrous oxide, otherwise known as “laughing gas” or through a pill.
Is Sedation Safe?
At Salo & Salo, our team is certified by the dental board to administer sedation. All of our dentists and anesthesiologists are licensed and highly trained in sedation dentistry. Additionally, all of our dental assistants have advanced education in sedation dentistry, which also requires Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training. Our team is highly trained and equipped to respond to any emergency situation. Additionally, our in-office anesthesiologists focus their entire practices in anesthesiology. Our team has the knowledge and experience to provide trusted and safe sedation dentistry for our patients.
How Am I Monitored?
The way patients are monitored throughout sedation dentistry is dependent on the extent of sedation and your condition. We use various advanced monitoring devices to ensure that our patients are always in good hands. Some of the monitoring devices include a blood pressure cuff, ECG, pulse oximeter, and a precordial stethoscope. A pulse oximeter is used to measure the amount of oxygen in the blood using a light sensor. For some patients, a capnograph may be used to measure carbon dioxide levels. Our team always closely monitors patients throughout the entire procedure and recovery time.
Am I a Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?
If fear or anxiety is preventing you from receiving dental treatment or scheduling your oral surgery, then it is a good idea to consult with your dentist to determine if sedation dentistry in West Hollywood is right for you. Delaying dental care can result in further oral health problems, which can become extremely uncomfortable, more complex, and costly later down the line. At Salo & Salo, our team will determine if you are an ideal candidate for sedation dentistry based on your current health, treatment concerns, and oral health needs.
How Long Will the Effects of Sedation Dentistry Last?
Nitrous oxide has the effect of placing patients in a deep relaxation state immediately, and the effects will wear off soon after the treatment is finished. On the other hand, the effects of oral conscious sedation and IV sedation last longer, which can range from two to six hours after the procedure has been completed.
Contact Us For Sedation Dentistry
If you are interested in sedation dentistry and would like to find out if you are a good candidate, contact our team to schedule a consultation. Our team at Salo & Salo will be happy to provide you with the dental care that you need, while ensuring that you are comfortable and relaxed throughout your procedure.
Learn More About Anti-Aging Dentistry in Beverly Hills
If you are considering a highly effective and lasting solution for anti-aging, then anti-aging dentistry may be the perfect option for you. At Salo & Salo Dental, our trusted and experienced team of anti-aging dentists can provide you with the results you need to feel and look your absolute best. With many happy patients, we take pride in being able to help our patients achieve fully functional, healthy, and confident smiles. To learn more about anti-aging dentistry in West Hollywood, feel free to contact our team to schedule a consultation and find out what is best for you.
