Sedation Dentistry Specialist

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help you relax while undergoing dental work ranging from a tooth cleaning to more invasive procedures like a filling or crown. The most common use of sedation dentistry is to help people who struggle with anxiety when it comes to going to the dentist, but you may also consider partial sedation if you have a low pain tolerance or very sensitive teeth. If that sounds like you, sedation dentistry may help you to receive the dental care you need.

Dr. Arora doesn’t provide general anesthesia at his offices, so you won’t be asleep for your procedure. Depending on the extent of your anxiety and the intensity of the procedure, you may feel largely awake but more relaxed, or feel more sedated but still conscious, and won’t be able to remember much of what happened. For most procedures, Dr. Arora will have you inhale nitrous oxide, also commonly known as laughing gas.

How does nitrous oxide sedation feel?

Nitrous oxide is not a very intense sedative, and there’s a reason it’s nicknamed laughing gas. You may not necessarily laugh while under its influence, but you’ll feel a sense of happiness, euphoria, and relaxation which allows you to tune out the pain and anxiety you associate with going to the dentist.

You receive nitrous oxide through a mask, and Dr. Arora makes sure you’re consistently receiving an appropriate amount. Nitrous oxide has the advantage of wearing off quickly, which means you’ll be able to drive yourself home after your procedure, unlike with complete sedation.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Dr. Arora uses sedation cautiously and sticks to methods such as nitrous oxide that will not cause you to lose consciousness entirely. Because of that, you don’t have to worry about any risks when being sedated under his care. It’s not the same as receiving anesthesia, which is something an oral surgeon would administer.

Dr. Arora wants to make sure you feel safe and comfortable while receiving dental care. He’s happy to answer any questions you may have, including about sedation.

If you think sedation dentistry would help you receive the treatment you need, call Dr. Alok Arora, DMD, in Menlo Park, California, or book an appointment online today.