Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley CA
Does the thought of going to the dentist make you nervous, fearful, even outright terrified? If so, then sedation dentistry may be right for you. Sedation dentistry helps to calm patients who are anxious or frightened about seeing the dentist, or ease the symptoms of pre-existing conditions that may complicate receiving dental care. Determining whether or not sedation dentistry is right for you is a decision that every person needs to make for themselves. To help, we have compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our patients about sedation dentistry in Scotts Valley.
What kinds of sedation do you use?
Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry offers four different methods of sedation:
- Nitrous oxide – Also known as laughing gas, this chemical compound is mixed with oxygen and administered in a mask that fits comfortably over the nose. The gas has a calming effect while diminishing your awareness of your surroundings and easing any anxiety. This is used as light sedation.
- Oral sedation – This pill is administered in a pill that the patient swallows. The effects of the pill produce moderate sedation, a relaxed feeling that eases both anxiety and tension. Patients who receive oral sedation often have just vague memories of their appointments. Individuals who choose oral sedation also will need to arrange transport to and from our office in Scotts Valley.
- IV sedation – The sedative is delivered intravenously and produces deep sedation. This typically is used only for individuals who are scheduled for a particularly complex or lengthy procedure, or for patients who suffer from severe cases of dental phobia. Our staff carefully evaluates your needs and health history before deciding to use IV sedation. We also can consult with an anesthesiologist, who can monitor your vitals and then determine the correct amount of medication you need to receive the treatment you need.
- NuCalm – NuCalm is a drug-free method used to treat dental anxiety. A topical cream or chewable supplement is administered. Then, our staff applies stimulating microcurrent behind the ears, while the patient wears an eye mask to block out light and headphones that play either soothing music or white noise. NuCalm takes just a few minutes to take effect and, once the procedure is done, you quickly return to your full faculties and can resume your normal routine immediately – including driving yourself home from the appointment.
Will I be able to breathe on my own while sedated?
Yes. No matter which method of sedation that you choose, you will be in a conscious or semiconscious state at all times. You remain able to breathe on your own and also communicate with our dentists and hygienists.
How do I know if sedation dentistry is right for me?
Do you feel extreme levels of nervousness, anxiety or fear before a dental appointment? If so you could suffer dental anxiety or dental phobia, two conditions that can make a simple dental cleaning a highly traumatic experience. Sedation dentistry is recommended for patients with dental anxiety or dental phobia, as these thoughts and feelings are soothed, which allows a patient to remain calm and comfortable while receiving professional oral health care.
Sedation dentistry also can be ideal for patients who need several different treatments—such as the combinations of cosmetic procedures that take place in a smile makeover—or who are scheduled for lengthy or intensive dental work such as the installation of dental implants.
Sedation Dentistry in Los Gatos, Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley in California
Stop letting anxiety, fear or a pre-existing condition deprive you of the dental care you need. Dr. Max and Dr. Ariana at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry can use sedation dentistry to ensure you receive the professional oral care that you need. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling (831) 438-4411 or completing our contact form online.
