Sedation Dentistry

Relaxation Dentistry

Conscious Sedation is defined as a minimally depressed level of consciousness that retains the patient's ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond appropriately to physical stimulation and verbal command and that is produced by pharmacological or pharmacological method or combination thereof.

Sedation Dentistry, sometimes called Relaxation Dentistry, refers to the way dentists manage pain and anxiety during dental appointments.

Unlike General Anesthesia where a patient is completely unconscious, asleep, and unable to respond, patients under Conscious Sedation are able to respond to commands and breathe on their own.

What kind of sedation is used for dentistry?

There are many types of dental sedation that may be required depending on what kind of dental procedures you are receiving. Oral sedation can help relieve dental anxiety and has minimal side effects. Some patients may need a higher level of sedation if they have a tolerance to lesser forms of sedation or if they have a dental phobia. There are several types of sleep dentistry that will help put you at ease during your procedure:

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide sedation is administered by an anesthesiologist through a mask. This type of sedation is commonly referred to as receiving laughing gas. This type of sedation will help you relax even if you have a strong gag reflex.

Local Anesthetic

You may be a good candidate for local anesthetic if the dental work you are receiving is not extremely invasive. Local anesthesia is a sedation option where a numbing solution is applied to the area being treated and slowly numbs the area.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is a type of moderate sedation that may be required if patients need deep sedation. This type of sedation may be required if you have a strong dental fear or medical history that requires stronger sedation.

All types of sedation dentistry are there to help improve your oral health and make your dental visits easier. Oral-conscious sedation is a great solution for anyone with sensitive teeth or anyone who’s already uncomfortable being in a dentist’s chair.

What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?

There are many benefits of being sedated during your dental appointment, but perhaps the most common benefit of sedation dentistry is easing anxieties around the dentist. Some of the other benefits of sedation dentistry are:
  • Pain Relief – You don’t feel as much, if any, pain during your appointment when you’re sedated.
  • Gag Relief – Sedation can keep you from gagging while the dentist works in your mouth.
  • Faster Appointments – Get in and out of your appointment quicker since the dentist can work faster.
  • Anxiety Relief – For some patients, the anxiety of a dental procedure can be crippling. Sedation can make the experience easier.

What are the disadvantages of sedation dentistry?

Luckily, the benefits of sedation dentistry greatly outweigh the disadvantages. There are only a few downsides to being sedated at your appointment:
  • Delayed reaction to sedation - Some people may take longer to feel the effects of sedation, which may make your appointment slightly longer while your dentist waits for the sedation to take effect.
  • Unable to drive for a short period of time - Depending on how heavily sedated you are, you may not be able to drive for a short amount of time after you appointment, which can be very inconvenient.

Can you feel pain during sedation dentistry?

You should not feel any pain while you are sedated. However, some types of sedation, like a localized injection, may cause a very small amount of pain at the beginning (just a pinch as the needle is inserted). Since not all types of sedation put you fully to sleep, it's possible you may feel a slight pressure during your appointment, but you should not be able to feel any actual pain. Many times, you will not even be aware that you are having a procedure done. The only feeling you should have while you are sedated is a sense of calm and peace, and if you feel anything else you should let your dentist know right away.

How long does it take to recover from sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry has a very quick recovery time. You should start to recover from most forms of sedation about 15 minutes after your appointment. However, some deeper levels of sedation may take up to 24 hours to fully recover from. Your dentist will give you recovery instructions before you leave, and they may sometimes recommend that you don't engage in certain activities (such as driving or operating heavy machinery) for a while after your appointment. Always make sure that you follow your dentist's instructions thoroughly to ensure that you don't accidentally harm yourself.

How do I know if Sedation Dentistry is right for me?

Sedation dentistry can be a great way to relieve any anxiety you may have about your next dental visit. It’s a great option to consider, but you should find out from your dentist if you are eligible for sedation dentistry. People with certain medical conditions or people who take certain medications may not be eligible. Click here to learn more.

About Dr. Lovik Mirzaeian

We would like to welcome you to our practice and assure you that your ultimate satisfaction is our goal. Dr. Lovik Mirzaeian, DDS is a sedation dentist that has achieved extensive training in multidisciplinary dental treatments. His credentials include Dental Implants, Cosmetic Dentistry, Full Mouth Reconstruction, Endodontics, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, and Sleep Sedation.

Dr. Lovik Mirzaeian can fix your teeth, restore sore gums, and brighten your smile without discomfort. With sedation dentistry, you'll feel like you've slept through your appointments. You can have years of dental treatment done in just a few appointments. No more hiding your smile behind your hand or putting up with pain.

As a quality minded dentist, Dr. Mirzaeian directs and works closely with the technicians who provide assistance fabricating the materials used in your dental treatment. Practicing the art of dentistry since 2003, Dr. Lovik Mirzaeian provides the finest quality dental care available today. Dr. Mirzaeian has extensive experience in general and cosmetic surgery such as crowns, bridges, porcelain veneers, bonding, implants, dentures, partials, extractions, tooth colored fillings, teeth whitening, root canals and all other types of dentistry to create that winning smile you so desire. Through his frequent participation in continuing education courses, Dr. Mirzaeian ensures that his patients always receive the latest, most effective treatments possible.

Dr. Mirzaeian is an honors graduate of the University of San Francisco California School of Dentistry, where he received first-rate training in all aspects of general dentistry. Through a combination of state of the art technology, sensible treatment plans and genuine devotion to the unique needs of each patient Dr. Mirzaeian preserves healthy teeth and gums, alleviates oral discomfort and improves the appearance of smiles on a daily basis. He has applied his unique blend of artistic and technical skill to produce durable and aesthetic results in thousands of patients. A young dentist with a grasp of the most innovative, minimally invasive new procedures, Dr. Mirzaeian is dedicated to lifelong learning through continuing education courses.

Dr. Mirzaeian is licensed by the Dental Board of California and is a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and California Dental Association.