Dental sedationWe understand that not everyone enjoys their visits to the dentist or dentist. For many, it is a source of anxiety, stress, and discomfort. While we prioritize our patients’ comfort and well-being, sometimes they need a little extra help. In these situations, we encourage you to express any trepidation you have, so we can do what we need to in order to ensure you are relaxed. This is exactly why we offer dental sedation to our patients, whether they are coming in for a cosmetic procedure, oral surgery, or anything in between. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA dentist discusses the different kinds we provide and the benefits they can have for you.

We Are Highly Trained

We take the health and well-being of our patients very seriously, so when you have dental sedation, we closely monitor you the entire time you are here. Our team is licensed to provide sedation and they closely adhere to all guidelines surrounding anesthesia and sedation. We utilize the same monitoring and safety standards in our office that we do in hospital settings as well.

For Mild Sedation, We Use Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is one of the more common types of dental sedation. It is both mild and versatile, making it great for less intrusive procedures, like cosmetic ones. It is mixed with oxygen, so you breathe it in through your nose with a small mask as you undergo your procedure. It will help alleviate your anxiety and discomfort, but you will still be aware and with it enough to answer any questions we have for you. A major benefit of nitrous oxide is that its effects wear off within minutes after you stop breathing it in, so you can easily drive yourself home and go about your day afterward.

Oral Sedation Is Stronger

Oral sedation comes in the form of a pill or liquid, and you take it a while before you arrive at your appointment. Because of this, you will already be feeling the effects by the time you are receiving your care. Its effects are longer-lasting, so, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. Ultimately, oral sedation is stronger than laughing gas, so it is beneficial for more intrusive procedures as well as for more anxious patients. 

IV Sedation

IV sedation is administered directly into your bloodstream, and it is the strongest sedation we offer. Because it works intravenously, it takes effect very quickly. We utilize this for procedures like oral surgery and others that are more intrusive. You will be monitored the whole time you are receiving it. Like oral sedation, its effects will linger so you will need someone to drive you home after your appointment.

Contact Us To Learn More About Dental Sedation 

We want you to be relaxed and comfortable when you come in, so please do not hesitate to ask us about dental sedation. You can contact Balboa Dental Surgery in Newport Beach, CA by calling 949-630-0143 to schedule your appointment.