Sedation Dentistry San Diego 

Some people hate going to the dentist. The drills, the sights, and smells of the dentist can cause some people to feel anxious and uncomfortable, and because of that they dread going to the dentist.

The last thing the team at University Dental in San Diego wants is for our patients to feel that visiting the dentist is an unpleasant experience. That is why we offer sedation dentistry, a simple and easy way to make even the most fearful patient at ease in the dentist’s chair. To learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule a dentist appointment with University Dental, contact us today by calling (619) 582-4224.

• Some dentists will ask patients to take a pill an hour prior to coming into the dentist. In many cases, the pill is called Halcion®, which is a pill used to treat insomnia that will make patients groggy and sleepy. If your dentist asks you to take Halcion®, you will need to arrange a ride to and from the dentist.
• Dentists may also use nitrous oxide or laughing gas to help a patient relax. Prior to seeing the dentist, the patient will be administered a small amount of nitrous oxide to help them relax.
• In extreme cases, general anesthesia may be used to help relax the patient. While general anesthesia is usually reserved for surgical procedures, patients with a strong phobia of the dentist may require anesthesia to keep them still and relaxed.

Besides Medication, What Other Methods Are Used?

While the above medications are a big part of sedation dentistry, there are also other methods and techniques used to calm down patients. Below are some additional sedation dentistry techniques:

• We try to make our office as “zen” as possible. We decorate our dental office to try to create a safe and calm place for all of our patients.
• We will also provide patients with the option to listen to relaxing music while they are with the dentist. Many patients are triggered by the sounds of a dental office, so we have a playlist of relaxing music and noise-canceling headphones ready for our patients to enjoy.
• Tinted glasses or an eye mask may also be offered. If patients feel that the light is too bright in their eyes, we will provide tinted glasses to dim the light. If patients would rather not see what is going on, we may offer an eye mask so they can relax.
• We will also provide patients with a comfortable pillow and blanket.

Who is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Anyone who is uncomfortable at the dentist is a candidate for sedation dentistry. Our goal is for you to be as comfortable as possible, so if you feel anxious every time you go to the dentist, sedation dentistry is a great way to feel comfortable and at ease. Patients who are very busy or have a strong gag reflex may also be good candidates for sedation dentistry.

However, patients must be in good physical and mental health in order to be eligible for sedation dentistry. Patients who have a history of cardiac disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or respiratory disease may not be approved for sedation dentistry, for fear of putting their health in danger. 

Sedation Dentistry at University Dental in San Diego

If you dread going to the dentist, University Dental can help. We offer sedation dentistry to all eligible patients, allowing them to forget their fears and to relax at the dentist. Our team of specialists are experienced and well-trained in sedation dentistry, helping a variety of different patients calm down at the dentist. If you are interested in learning more about sedation dentistry or would like to schedule an appointment at University Dental in San Diego, contact us today by calling (619) 582-4224.

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