Sedation Dentistry
Are you among the millions of people who have avoided the dentist due to fear and anxiety? You’re not alone. Sedation dentistry can take the stress out of your dental experience and allow you to get the dental care you need.
We offer sedation to cater to a wide range of needs – from general anesthesia to conscious sedation. The newer anesthetics now available ensure your safety, as well as shorten recovery time. No matter which method of sedation you receive, we will carefully monitor your comfort level and tend to your every need until you are fully awake, stable, and ready to go home.
Our options for sedation dentistry include:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is a commonly used sedative that produces giddiness or euphoria, which is why people frequently call it “laughing gas.” You will wear a comfortable nasal mask during the procedure, and once the mask is removed, the effects will subside immediately. With nitrous oxide, the patient is aware of his or her surroundings and can respond to the dentist’s questions or commands.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation, or “conscious sedation,” is simply a small pill taken 30 to 60 minutes before the dental appointment. You will need someone to drive you to and from the office, because by the time you arrive, you will feel relaxed and possibly sleepy. The effects of oral sedation can last for several hours but will disappear within 24 hours. Conscious sedation differs from general anesthesia, since it does not put the patient totally “to sleep” and involves less risk.
General Anesthesia
For patients who would like to be "put completely out," we have an anesthesiologist that can come to our Escondido office. This allows patients to have multiple procedures done at once.
Custom Sedation
Some anxious patients may need only a little oral medication the night before to prepare them for their visit. For other patients, a combination of sedation methods works well. Whatever the anxiety level, our dentists will carefully consider the various options for helping you have a more relaxed dental visit.
Citracado Dental Group provides exceptional general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry in a warm, caring environment for patients of all ages. Call our Escondido dental office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jungman or Dr. Kangas. Located in Escondido, we welcome patients from San Marcos, Valley Center, and the surrounding areas.