Sedation Dentistry
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Playa District Dental
Erik Ligans, DDS
Cosmetic Dentist located in Los Angeles, CA
About 36% of Americans experience some type of dental anxiety. If you’ve put off regular oral health checkups due to fear or apprehension, consider sedation dentistry. At Playa District Dental, in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, Dr. E (Erik Ligans, DDS), and the team offer oral conscious sedation to assist individuals who are wrestling with dental anxiety. Call the office today to schedule an appointment.
Sedation Dentistry Q & A
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses prescription medication to help people relax during dental treatment. Many people experience fear or anxiety regarding oral health care. Sedation dentistry helps limit these feelings, ensuring you’re comfortable and at ease throughout your entire appointment.
Sedation dentistry is safe and usually well-tolerated. You can receive it for routine checkups and professional cleanings or more complex procedures like extractions and the placement of dental implants.
What are the types of sedation dentistry?
At Playa District Dental, Dr. E and the team offers 2 types of sedation dentistry, including:
Oral conscious sedation & IV sedation
Oral conscious sedation uses prescription medication, like Halcion® or Valium®, to promote feelings of relaxation. You take a pill orally about an hour prior to your appointment. Once the medication sets in, you feel groggy and relaxed. You might doze off during treatment, but Dr. E can wake you with a nudge if necessary.
Oral conscious sedation takes several hours to wear off, so you need a friend or family member to drive you home following your appointment.
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Anyone who experiences dental fear or anxiety can benefit from sedation dentistry. You might also benefit if you:
- Have a low pain threshold
- Can’t sit still for long periods
- Have sensitive teeth or gums
- Have a bad gag reflex
- Need large amounts of dental work completed
Adolescents can also benefit from sedation dentistry. This is especially true if your child has trouble sitting still for lengthy periods.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe and presents few side-effects. If you’re overweight or have an underlying medical condition like sleep apnea, let Dr. E know. These issues won’t necessarily keep you from receiving sedation dentistry, but they can increase your risk of complications during treatment.
Dr. E and the team take great care to ensure your well-being throughout treatment. During your initial sedation dentistry consultation, make sure to ask questions, and bring any relevant medical records.
To explore sedation dentistry further, request a consultation at Playa District Dental. Book online to schedule an appointment or call the office today.
