Do you dread visiting the dentist? You’re not alone. Going to the dentist can be an anxiety-inducing experience for many people, but anesthesia and sedation services can help you feel more at ease.
In fact, J. Paul Fuentes, DDS, DABP, Andrew Peterson, DMD, MS, and our team at Arcadia Perio offer three different levels of dental sedation, all designed to keep you relaxed and comfortable in the dentist’s chair. We’re here to help you find the best solution for your needs.
Your dental sedation options
At Arcadia Perio, we work closely with our patients to give them the quality care and positive experiences they deserve. That’s why we offer three main types of dental sedation:
Nitrous oxide
Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is an effective sedation option for many people with mild to moderate dental anxiety. We administer nitrous oxide by placing a mask over your nose that delivers a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen.
When you breathe in, the gas helps you feel more relaxed and calm during your dental procedure. After your procedure is over, we turn off the gas and the effects wear off almost instantly. You can drive yourself home and resume your normal activities right away.
Oral pills
Another popular option for our patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety is oral sedation. We prescribe a pill for you to take before your procedure to help you relax.
While the exact medication we prescribe can vary, the most common type of oral medication for dental anxiety is a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines help reduce anxiety by slowing down your central nervous system.
They’re generally safe and effective for most people, but they may cause drowsiness, so you need to have someone else drive you home after your appointment.
IV sedation
IV sedation is the deepest form of dental sedation we offer at Arcadia Perio, and it can be a good option for people with severe anxiety or for more invasive procedures. We administer IV sedation through a needle into a vein in your arm or hand.
The medication travels directly into your bloodstream and takes effect quickly. Unlike nitrous oxide and oral pills, you will be completely unconscious during your dental procedure. You’ll need someone to drive you home after your appointment and stay with you until the effects of the sedation wear off.
Choosing the right dental sedation option for you
If you have dental anxiety or need major dental work, sedation can help ease your mind and keep you comfortable during treatment. Dr. Fuentes and Dr. Peterson specialize in anesthesia and sedation, and we’re here to help you find the best option for your needs.
In general, nitrous oxide and oral sedation are best for people with mild to moderate anxiety. One of these options may be right for you if you need a simple procedure, like a cleaning or filling.
IV sedation may be the best option for you if you have severe dental anxiety or if you need a more invasive procedure like an extraction, root canal, or other type of periodontal surgery. Your comfort is our ultimate goal, so discuss your questions and preferences with our team.
Before recommending dental sedation, we review your medical history. Sometimes, patients with certain medical conditions may not be able to receive sedation.
Dental anxiety shouldn’t keep you from getting the dental care you need. To learn more about your anesthesia and sedation options, schedule an appointment at Arcadia Perio in Arcadia, California. Book a consultation online or call us at 626-600-2009 today.