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If you’re anxious about dental procedures, sedation dentistry may be a good option. Sedation dentistry uses medications to help you relax during your appointment. Helene Julius, DDS, and the compassionate team at Applemint Dental offer excellent sleep dentistry options in Beverly Hills, California. Sedation makes your experience more comfortable and may even allow the team to complete your dental work in fewer visits. Call the practice today or reach out online to learn more about sleep dentistry.
What is sleep dentistry?
Sleep, or sedation, dentistry keeps you comfortable and relaxed during dental procedures. It may be helpful if you have dental anxiety or if you’re undergoing extensive treatment.
Applemint Dental offers nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”), oral conscious sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation. An experienced anesthesiologist is also available.
When do I need sleep dentistry?
You may benefit from sleep dentistry if you have:
- Dental anxiety or fear
- Sensitive teeth
- A strong gag reflex
- Difficulty getting numb
- Jaw pain or TMJ disorders
- The need for extensive dental work
- Claustrophobia (while in the dental chair)
- Special needs (such as physical, cognitive, or behavioral)
The team is happy to discuss sleep dentistry options with you and determine which best suits your needs.
What can I expect from sleep dentistry?
Before an appointment, the team has you arrive early to complete the necessary paperwork. You can ask any questions about the procedure or sedation, ensuring you feel fully prepared.
Oral sedation
With this form of sedation, you take a pill before your appointment. The pill is safe and effective, and you may experience relaxation, grogginess, or even fall asleep. For children, the team may use liquid oral sedation.
Plan for a friend or family member to drive you home after your appointment.
IV sedation
Your provider administers this type of sedation through an IV. They can adjust your dosage at any point during the procedure and monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.
You may fall asleep, and it’s normal to have little to no memory of your treatment when you wake up.
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative that helps you relax. Your provider may use it in combination with other forms of sedation.
Once your procedure concludes, your provider will give you pure oxygen to flush the nitrous oxide out of your system. You can then safely drive yourself home.
General anesthesia
An anesthesiologist is available if you need general anesthesia. Providers may recommend this for young children, adults with special needs, or people with extreme dental anxiety who would benefit from being unconscious during a procedure.
If you’re considering sedation dentistry, call Applemint Dental today or reach out online.