At Alhambra Dental Plaza, Dr. Han Do and our talented oral care team understand that dental appointments can be a source of anxiety for some patients, making it difficult for them to receive the care they need and deserve. That’s why our multi-specialty practice is committed to providing a comfortable experience during any procedure—helping to empower those we serve with a sense of confidence and security.
Besides being compassionate, gentle, and accommodating, Dr. Do and each doctor and member of our team genuinely care about patients and want them to feel comfortable with us. To further ensure a pleasant experience, Alhambra Dental Plaza proudly offers sedation dentistry to help patients in East Sac and Midtown Sacramento, CA feel relaxed during dental treatments. Read below to learn more!
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
To begin, we’re sure you may be wondering what sedation dentistry is and how it works. Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It allows those who may have anxiety, fear, or difficulty sitting for extended periods to receive the dental care they need in a comfortable and stress-free environment.
Sedation dentistry works by depressing the central nervous system, reducing feelings of fear and anxiety, and inducing relaxation. Depending on the type and level of sedation, patients will typically remain conscious but relaxed or may drift off to sleep during their procedure.
The Types Of Dental Sedation
We understand that each patient is unique and may require different levels of sedation to feel comfortable during their dental treatment. At Alhambra Dental Plaza, we offer a variety of sedation options to meet the individual needs and preferences of our patients in East Sac and Midtown. Our sedation options are listed below.
Calming Inhalant
Our calming inhalant is a mild sedative, known as nitrous oxide, that is administered through a mask placed over the nose. This sedation option helps patients feel relaxed and at ease during their dental procedure. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, allowing patients to return to daily activities soon after the appointment.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication, usually in pill form, prior to your appointment at Alhambra Dental Plaza. This type of sedation helps to alleviate anxiety and can range from mild to moderate, depending on the dosage. Patients typically remain awake during the procedure but may feel drowsy and have little to no memory of the treatment.
IV Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation is administered directly into the bloodstream, providing a deeper level of sedation for patients who require more significant anxiety relief or for those undergoing complex dental procedures. Under IV sedation, patients are closely monitored by our team of sedation specialists to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
The Benefits Of Sedation Dentistry
Dental sedation offers numerous benefits for both patients and dental professionals, making the range of procedures we perform more accessible and comfortable for a wide range of individuals. Here are some key benefits of dental sedation:
- Reduced Anxiety And Fear: One of the primary benefits of dental sedation is its ability to alleviate anxiety and fear associated with dental treatments. For patients with dental phobia or anxiety, sedation can make dental appointments much more manageable and help them receive the necessary care.
- Increased Comfort: Sedation dentistry can make dental procedures more comfortable for patients who have sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or difficulty sitting still for extended periods. The relaxing effects of sedation can help create a more pleasant experience for these individuals.
- Efficient Dental Treatments: With dental sedation, Dr. Do can often perform multiple procedures in one appointment, saving our patients time and reducing the number of visits required. This is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or complex dental needs.
- Improved Cooperation: Some patients, including young children or individuals with special needs, may have difficulty cooperating during dental treatments. Sedation can help these patients remain calm and still, allowing Dr. Do to perform the necessary procedures safely and effectively.
- Amnesia Effect: Some types of dental sedation, such as oral sedation or IV sedation, can cause temporary amnesia, which means patients may have little to no memory of the dental procedure. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with severe dental phobia, as it minimizes any negative associations with dental treatment.
Sedation FAQs
For any questions or concerns about sedation dentistry, please refer to our comprehensive Sedation FAQ section below. If you need additional information, feel free to contact Alhambra Dental Plaza to speak with one of our knowledgeable sedation specialists.
Yes, sedation dentistry is generally safe when administered by trained and experienced professionals like Dr. Do and our team at Alhambra Dental Plaza. We closely monitor patients throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and well-being. It’s important to discuss your medical history and current medications with our experts to determine the most suitable sedation option for you.
- Sedation dentistry aims to minimize anxiety during dental procedures. While sedation doesn’t actively alleviate uncomfortable physical sensations, it is often used in conjunction with local anesthesia for more invasive treatments. This helps to ensure a completely pain-free experience.
The duration of sedation effects depends on the type of sedation used. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, allowing patients to return to their daily activities soon after their appointment. Oral sedation and IV sedation may have longer-lasting effects, and patients may need someone to drive them home and monitor them for a few hours after the procedure.
It depends on the type of sedation you will receive. For nitrous oxide, there are generally no restrictions. However, for oral or IV sedation, we may recommend fasting for a specific period before your appointment, usually six to eight hours. Be sure to follow Dr. Do’s instructions to ensure a safe and effective sedation experience.
- While sedation dentistry is generally safe, some patients may experience mild side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or nausea. These side effects are usually short-lived and can be managed with proper care and rest. Discuss any concerns with Dr. Do and our sedation team, who can provide guidance on managing potential side effects.
At Alhambra Dental Plaza, our primary goal is to deliver exceptional dental care while prioritizing your comfort and well-being throughout the entire process. Dr. Do and our sedation specialists in Sacramento, CA are well-versed in various sedation methods, ensuring that you receive personalized care tailored to your unique needs. By offering a range of sedation options, we aim to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere that dispels dental fears and promotes positive dental experiences. Trust Alhambra Dental Plaza for all your dental needs, knowing that your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our highest priorities.
Call Alhambra Dental Plaza today to request sedation for your next visit!