Sedation is best for people who have a real fear or anxiety that prevents them from going to the dentist. Call La Costa Dental Excellence at 760-633-3033 to see if you’re a good fit for sedation. Sedative dentistry may also be suitable for a patient who:
- has a low pain threshold
- cannot sit in a dental chair
- have very sensitive teeth
- has a bad gag reflex
- requires a large amount of dental work
Sometimes children get sedated when they are afraid to go to the dentist or do not cooperate with the visit. Nitric oxide is typically safe for children and can be supplied by almost any dentist. A small percentage of pediatric dentists are trained to administer oral sedation to children. Oral sedation may be safe if kept at the recommended dose for the age and weight of the child.
Can Any Dentist Perform Sedation?
Most dentists can provide some sedation (such as nitric oxide or pills). More and more dentists may provide mild sedation. But a small percentage of dentists who have completed deep sedation and general anesthesia program from the Dental Accreditation Commission (CODA) will be able to use these more complex techniques. These dentists are usually oral and maxillofacial surgeons and dentists. Some dentists use an anesthesiologist who is specially trained to give all levels of sedation and anesthesia to children and adults.
How Safe Is Sedation Dentistry?
There is always a risk with anesthesia. However, it is usually safe when administered by experienced dentists. Some people, such as those who are obese or have obstructive sleep apnea, should talk to their doctor before calming down. This is because they are more likely to have complications from anesthesia.
It is important to make sure your dentist is trained and qualified to provide the type of sedation you will receive. To be a smart patient, you need to make sure the following are true:
- Your dentist should check your medical history before the procedure. Your dentist should also know if you are a suitable candidate for sedation and ask about the medications you are currently taking.
- You should ask what dose of sedatives is appropriate for your age and medical condition. You should also ask if the dose is recommended by the FDA.
- It is important to know how much the dentist has trained and how many sedation procedures he has performed. The more procedures the dentist performs, the better.
- You should be provided with a form detailing the risks of the procedure. Check with your dentist carefully. Ask if any of the words are not clear to you.
- The dentist must check your vital signs during the procedure as directed by the American Dental Association. The dentist must also have oxygen – artificial ventilation – and medications that repeat the effects of hand sedation if you need them.
If you would like to find out if sedation dentistry is right for you, schedule a consultation by calling La Costa Dental Excellence at 760-633-3033. We are located at 7730 Rancho Santa Fe Rd Ste 106 in Carlsbad.
Contact La Costa Dental Excellence:
760-633-3033
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7730 Rancho Santa Fe Rd Ste 106
Carlsbad, California
92009