Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry Anaheim, CA

Dental sedation, also referred to as “sleep dentistry,” helps patients remain calm and comfortable during a dental procedure while reducing pain. Sedation techniques range from mild relaxation to full unconsciousness and are ideal for patients who experience anxiety at the dentist.

Our Anaheim Dentists have met or exceeded all necessary qualifications to administer sedation. Our dental team is required to attend special training to handle and dispense such sedation techniques.

Sedation dentistry can offer a better experience for both adults and children who may otherwise avoid necessary dental procedures due to fear or discomfort.

If you experience severe anxiety or fear of dental procedures, dental sedation may be a viable option for you. However, some medical conditions such as allergies, sleep apnea, and pregnancy may exclude you as a candidate. Our compassionate team will review your medical history and help determine the best course of action.

The specific technique utilized will determine your experience under dental sedation. Nitrous oxide can create a relaxed sensation, while oral medication may induce drowsiness. With unconscious sedation, you will be completely asleep and will not remember the procedure.

There are three basic forms of sedation dentistry: conscious sedation, twilight sedation, and unconscious sedation.

• Conscious sedation involves low doses of non-sleep-inducing medications and includes:
  
  • Local anesthesia to numb pain
  • Oral tablets
  • Nitrous oxide
• Twilight sedation leaves patients conscious but extremely drowsy and relaxed. This is sometimes administered by IV or could include nitrous oxide and is used for mid-level procedures.
• Unconscious sedation, or general anesthesia, is administered via a breathing mask or IV and is used for intensive dental surgery or patients resistant to other forms of sedation.

The coverage of dental sedation costs will depend on your specific dental plan. It's recommended to contact your insurance provider to inquire about what is covered and what is not. The team at Dentist of Anaheim can also help to determine your out-of-pocket costs (if any).

Dental sedation can range in intensity from mild relaxation to full unconsciousness. Oral medication can make you feel sleepy, while nitrous oxide can make you feel relaxed without causing sleep. Unconscious sedation (general anesthesia), however, will put you into a deep sleep and you will not remember the procedure.

Sedation dentistry is generally safe for most adults. However, your dental professional will review your medical history and discuss the potential risks and methods of sedation with you to determine if it is a safe option for you.

Sedation dentistry is considered safe for children and can help alleviate anxiety during dental procedures.

The most common side effect of dental sedation is temporary amnesia and reduced pain. Some patients may experience nausea from nitrous oxide, hiccups, drowsiness, slow reflexes, low blood pressure, headache, or feeling sluggish.

The recovery time for dental sedation depends on the type and intensity of sedation. For conscious sedation, the recovery time is usually quick. It's important to have someone drive you home after your appointment and to avoid making important decisions or driving for at least 24 hours.

Your dental professional will provide you with specific pre-treatment instructions depending on the type of sedation being used. You may also be given a prescription to take before your appointment. It's important to arrange for transportation to and from your appointment, if required.