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Sedation Dentistry in Roseville, CA

Relax and enjoy comfortable, anxiety-free dentistry at Fountains Dental Excellence. Our experienced, friendly staff are experts in providing sedation dentistry options for the highest level of comfort and care.

About Sedation Dentistry

Seeing a sedation dentist can help patients relax while receiving dental treatment. Sedation dentistry helps patients who have extreme dental-related fear or anxiety. If you avoid visiting the dentist because you are uneasy, sedation dentistry could be the solution for you.

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A sedation dentist is available at Fountains Dental Excellence in Roseville and the surrounding area. Our practitioners can help you determine if you are a good candidate for this type of dentistry. Call us today at (916) 780-3000 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

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Types of Sedation Dentistry

Visiting the dentist causes extreme worry in many patients, but they can often combat this stress by choosing one of our sedation dentistry options. At Fountains Dental Excellence, our dentists are trained to provide patients with medication that can relieve anxiety and increase comfort during any dental procedure. The American Dental Association has strict guidelines in place to determine which of the following types of sedation is most suitable for individual patients.

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MINIMAL SEDATION 

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, allows the patient to remain fully alert and aware of what is happening throughout the procedure. This medication commonly causes patients to feel relaxed and lightheaded. It is the most common form of sedation used in dentistry.

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MODERATE SEDATION

Oral medication makes patients feel drowsy during their procedures. The effect of the medication may be strong enough to cause some patients to slur their speech and forget the procedure process. It must be taken an hour before the procedure begins.

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DEEP SEDATION

Strong medication is administered through an IV. This allows the medicine to take effect more quickly and provides deeper sedation. Although most patients remain awake, they are extremely groggy and have little to no recollection of the procedure afterward. Some patients may fall into a light sleep but can be awakened easily once the dental procedure is complete.

When Sedation Dentistry Should Be Used

Many patients have no problems visiting the dentist, but those who deal with anxiety and fear often have a difficult time staying still for a procedure. Sedation dentistry can be a good choice for any patient who has a low pain threshold, sensitive teeth, a bad gag reflex, or requires extensive dental work. In some cases, a person's dental fears are so strong that they avoid seeing the dentist altogether. This could negatively impact oral health if a person does not receive the necessary services to care for their teeth properly, which is why sedation dentistry is such an important part of dental care.

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Patients with these issues should consider seeing a dentist who offers a variety of sedation dentistry options so they can relax during necessary dental procedures. The longer a patient waits before having oral or dental health problems addressed, the more extensive the damage will be. Therefore, it is a good idea for patients to seek the help of a certified sedation dentist immediately after realizing they struggle with an aversion.

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The Important Health Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

In a study published by the Journal of Dental Hygiene, 19% of the 308 study participants suffered from moderate to high dental anxiety. A sizable part of this group even reported missing appointments because of dental fear. Sedation is one of the effective ways dentists have found to help patients get the care they need. Patients who have been avoiding necessary dental work due to anxiety can find sedation very helpful.

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In addition to patients who suffer from nervousness, candidates for sedation may include those who have difficulty sitting for a long time. Some dental procedures necessitate remaining in the chair for a long time with minimal movement. Various physical and mental conditions can make this extremely difficult for some. Other issues where sedation can help include a strong gag reflex or a low pain threshold.

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When it comes to sedation dentistry, the primary benefit is that patients can receive necessary oral and dental health care which otherwise might be avoided due to dental anxiety, fear or other conditions that can make dental care difficult.

Suffering from dental anxiety? We can help.

How to Prepare for a Sedation Dentistry Procedure

Sedation can help patients get through most types of dental procedures. Preparation is key to making things go smoothly. Taking the following steps can help patients get the dental care they need with minimal pain and anxiety:

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ASK ABOUT RECOMMENDED SEDATION TYPES

A sedation dentist may use several types of medication. Different dosages can also control the strength of the sedation. Patients should also tell the dentist about their preferences; for example, a patient who dislikes needles may benefit from oral or inhaled sedation instead of having an IV.

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REVIEW MEDICAL HISTORY, INCLUDING ALLERGIES AND MEDICATIONS

Some medical conditions or medications may interact negatively with some sedation components. It is important for the dentist to have all relevant information in order to administer sedation properly. Patients whose medical history makes some types of sedation contraindicated can still benefit from other formulations.

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REVIEW INFORMATION WITH THE DENTIST

A sedation dentist typically provides detailed instructions on how to prepare for a procedure under sedation and what to do afterward. It is important to follow these recommendations correctly for optimal comfort and safety. Be sure to ask questions if any instructions are unclear.

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MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR GETTING HOME

Patients undergoing most types of sedation are advised to arrange for a ride home. The effects of sedation can linger for some time and can include drowsiness or dizziness. With certain types, it may be safe for the patient to go home on their own shortly after the procedure. The California Dental Association notes that the mild effects of nitrous oxide typically last for about 15 minutes after the procedure.

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Is Sedation Dentistry Right for Everyone?

Not necessarily. While sedation dentistry can help many people, it is not possible for everyone. Patients with certain conditions such as obesity or obstructive sleep apnea may not be able to receive this treatment due to the possibility of complications. Our dentist will speak with patients before providing sedation to ensure that it is safe.

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This process will include reviewing a patient's health history and medications to determine whether they are a good candidate for sedation. It is crucial to receive sedation from a trained and qualified sedation dentist. Our team will work with each patient to determine their candidacy for sedation and ensure their safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • For most patients, yes.

    Sedation dentistry is safe for many people. However, patients who have sleep apnea or are obese have a higher risk of complications from the medication. They should inform the dentist of their medical history so the practitioner can determine if sedation is the right solution.

  • Anyone can.

    Patients who experience severe anxiety over the thought of visiting the dentist should consider sedation dentistry. According to WebMD, this practice also benefits people with gag reflexes, sensitive teeth, or low pain tolerances. It may also be an option for those who have difficulty sitting still for extended periods or need a significant amount of work done.

  • By alleviating anxiety and discomfort.

    Proper oral hygiene, including routine dental exams and cleanings, is essential for good oral health. However, many people have distress during dental procedures, causing them to avoid the dentist as often as possible. This leads to a decline in oral health and could lead to major problems in the future. Dentists who are trained in sedation dentistry help patients relax so that they can undergo the cleanings and other procedures needed to maintain healthy teeth.

  • Yes.

    According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, dental sedation is safe for children. Many kids are uncooperative or scared while in the dentist's chair, and sedation makes them feel at ease throughout the procedure. Most children only need mild sedation.

  • It varies.

    Most patients will feel drowsy for a few hours after seeing a sedation dentist. If you have received mild sedation, you may be able to drive yourself home but should rest the remainder of the day. Patients who receive moderate to deep sedatives will need someone else to drive them home and may sleep for a few hours after the appointment. However, all patients can resume their normal lifestyles the day after the procedure.

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Enjoy Sedation Dentistry in Roseville, CA

If you are looking for a dental office in Roseville, CA, that provides sedation dentistry options, contact Fountains Dental Excellence today. Our dentists, Adrian Radu, DDS, and Dan Gustavson, DDS, combine years of experience with a variety of sedation dentistry options for a dental experience patients love.

Shop. Dine. Smile.

Located in the beautiful Fountains Shopping Center, Fountains Dental Excellence is conveniently located, easily accessible, and dedicated to giving you dental care that you deserve.  Our dentists in Roseville, CA proudly provide excellence in dental care for Rocklin, Lincoln, Granite Bay, Auburn, Highland Reserve, Westpark, Fiddyment Farm, Stoneridge, Diamond Oaks and surrounding areas.

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LOOKING FOR A DENTIST NEAR YOU? LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN SERVE YOUR DENTAL CARE NEEDS.

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