Everything You Need to Know About Sedation Dentistry

Does going to the dentist paralyze you with fear? If so, you are not alone. Fortunately, sedation dentistry from a cosmetic & general dentistry expert like Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA may be the answer. From invasive procedures to teeth cleaning, sedation can help relax you during those uncomfortable visits to your dentist.

A Closer Look at Sedation Dentistry

When a dentist uses nitrous oxide, a general anesthetic or medication to relax you during a procedure, it's called sedation dentistry. Although many people associate sedation with going to sleep, most people are actually awake during a procedure. Dentists use sedation to help reduce pain, anxiety and tension during treatment.

The level of sedation you might experience includes relaxed but awake, conscious but groggy or on the edge of consciousness. If a dentist uses general anesthesia, you're normally unconscious. Doctors use general anesthesia when performing an invasive procedure like oral surgery.

Can All Dentists Use Sedation

In most cases, dentists are trained to use nitrous oxide. However, using IV sedation or a general anesthetic requires additional training or special licensing. If you have questions for Dr. Suzanne Haeri about her sedation dentistry experience and her cosmetic & general dentistry training in Los Angeles, CA, feel free to contact us today.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Although using a general anesthetic or other medications to relax patients poses some risk, sedation dentistry is typically safe. However, some patients may be at higher risk than others, such as those with sleep apnea. Additionally, if you have any pre-existing conditions, you should consult your primary care doctor or Dr. Haeri before you choose sedation.

Is Sedation Right for Me?

Before you choose sedation, you should consider the procedure you're having and how you normally respond to medical procedures. For example, if you're getting your teeth cleaned, you probably don't need sedation – unless the idea of someone using tools in your mouth paralyzes you with fear. And, if you're terrified of needs, IV sedation probably isn't the best choice.

If you're delaying your next dental visit because you associate dental work with pain, contact our team today to learn more about sedation dentistry in Los Angeles, CA and our cosmetic & general dentistry expert Dr. Suzanne Haeri by calling (310) 657-2200.