Sedation Dentistry FAQs Cerritos, CA

Sedation dentistry involves administering a sedative to the patient before the appointment or procedure. This reduces anxiety, promotes calmness, and keeps the patient comfortable during the appointment.

Sedation dentistry is completely safe when performed by a trained provider like those at our Cerritos office. You’ll be monitored the entire time to be certain you don’t have any adverse reactions.

Sedation dentistry is an option for you if you have severe anxiety about seeing a dentist, are afraid of needles, gag easily, have difficulty going numb with anesthesia, or get nauseous at the dentist. It might also be useful for you to receive sedation if none of the above apply, but you are having an unusually long procedure. In the latter case, sedation dentistry will keep you comfortable.

Here at the Cerritos office, we use three types of sedation dentistry. The first is nitrous oxide, a gas that you inhale that gives you a feeling of euphoria without rendering you unconscious. It is quick-acting and generally clears your system before you leave the building.

The second is oral sedation medication. This is a pill you swallow that takes effect in just a few minutes. The length of the sedation varies based on the medication and the dose. Your doctor will prescribe an appropriate dose for your appointment length.

The third is general anesthesia or unconscious sedation. It is provided via IV or a breathing mask and may be used for more invasive procedures, such as dental surgery.

There are occasionally minor side effects. Grogginess is the most common, but some patients experience nausea, a headache, or a dry mouth.

The sedation will last the approximate length of your appointment or treatment. Your provider at the Cerritos office will determine the right dose and type of sedative for you beforehand.

Sedation dentistry isn’t the same as general anesthesia. It’s not designed to render you unconscious, though some patients do fall asleep. You should be awake and responsive during your treatment but relaxed.

We ask that you have someone else drive you home after your appointment in case the sedation hasn’t fully worn off. You should plan on not driving for 24 hours after the appointment and should expect to feel sleepy for much of the rest of the day.

No, the sedatives used in sedation dentistry don’t provide pain relief. Your provider at the Cerritos office will administer anesthesia to prevent pain. The two medications together should ensure that you experience little or no discomfort during your dental procedure.

The cost for sedation dentistry varies depending on the type of sedation used, the length of your procedure, and how much of the sedation will be covered by your insurance company. Some insurance companies cover the entire cost, while others won’t cover sedation dentistry at all.

The staff at the Cerritos office will find out what your coverage is and provide you with a detailed cost breakdown so that you know how much you will have to pay out of pocket before your procedure. They can also discuss financing options with you.