HOW DOES SEDATION DENTISTRY WORK
Many people are fearful of dental treatment and their apprehension and anxiety causes them to avoid and postpone regular dental care until their oral health deteriorates. It is estimated that 30 percent of the population avoids the dentist due to fear. This all-to-common "dental phobia" prevents people from receiving necessary routine care, potentially compromising the health and functionality of their mouth and smile. Sedation dentistry, also known as "relaxation dentistry," offers an opportunity to experience your dental treatment without pain or anxiety. Dr. Jason Arandia and his sedation dentistry team can provide the highest quality care in a safe and relaxing environment to meet all your dental needs.
INITIAL CONSULTATION
At your initial consultation, Dr. Arandia will talk to you about your concerns and answer all your questions. Following a comprehensive physical assessment and x-ray evaluation, your treatment needs will be determined. Dr. Arandia will custom design a sedation protocol of medications that will work best for you. An appointment will then be made for you to return to begin treatment.
SEDATION APPOINTMENT
At your sedation appointment, safe and effective medications will be administered while under constant monitoring of your vital signs. Your treatment will not begin until you are completely comfortable. Most patients find that they remember very little of the appointment, due to amnesic properties of the medications; it is as if they slept through the treatment. In reality, sedation dentistry maintains a level of consciousness in the patient for safety and cooperation. In your relaxed state, Dr. Arandia will be able to complete your treatment in less time and fewer visits. When your appointment is finished, you will be dismissed to the care of your trusted companion who will ensure your safe recovery at home. You will experience very little, if any, post-operative discomfort, and your friends and family will complement you on your beautiful new smile.
TYPES OF SEDATION
Nitrous Oxide: Commonly known as "laughing gas," Nitrous Oxide has been safely used in dentistry since for over 170 years. It helps patients to relax and relieves pain, making local anesthetic more effective. The sedative properties of nitrous oxide are immediate and it has no lingering effects once it is stopped. This makes it ideal for patients with mild anxiety or those who do not have access to a companion to take them home.
Oral Conscious Sedation: The most common technique used in the United States, Oral Conscious Sedation is easy and requires no needles. The medications given have a wide margin of safety and the result is a comfortable experience lasting several hours. Used in combination with Nitrous Oxide, Oral Conscious Sedation is effective for the vast majority of patients.
Intravenous (I.V.) Sedation: In patients with severe anxiety that are resistant to oral sedatives, Intravenous Sedation is an option. A small needle is placed in a vein either near the front of your elbow or the back of your hand. The sedative medications take effect quickly.