For many people, the simple act of going to the dentist is a stressful situation. These people tend to avoid seeking dental care until it can’t be delayed any longer. Because of this, any easy-to-treat condition may progress to the point where it requires a more complex procedure. If you are one of these people, you should consider looking into sedation dentistry in Los Angeles. This approach can allow you to address your dental issues in the most stress-free and comfortable way possible.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is an approach to dentistry that involves using general anesthesia to reduce the anxiety and pain experienced by patients. It is especially meant for people who experience a lot of distress while undergoing any dental procedure. If you decide to undergo sedation dentistry near you, you will be administered a form of sedative, resulting in you becoming unconscious while the procedure is being performed.
There are different types of anesthesia
Anesthesia can be classified into local anesthesia and general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is broadly used by dentists while performing procedures like tooth extractions and root canals. This type of anesthesia numbs the area where it is injected but does not affect your state of consciousness or your mood. On the other hand, general anesthesia can be inhaled or administered intravenously and causes you to fall asleep. It blocks pain and anxiety, so your dentist will be able to deliver treatment without you being aware. It is important to specify that the general anesthesia administered during dental procedures isn’t as strong as the one used by medical doctors and doesn’t require intubation.
How much does it usually cost?
This usually depends on how long the procedure takes. On average sedation dentistry can cost anywhere between $400 to $600 an hour. This price only includes the anesthesia and is independent of the cost of the dental procedure being performed. It may sound substantial, but for people who have phobias or other problems such as strong gag reflexes, this is a small price to pay for their peace of mind.
How should you prepare for sedation dentistry?
If you have decided to try sedation dentistry, there are some things you will have to plan ahead of your procedure. Since general anesthesia alters your state of consciousness, you won’t be completely alert after the procedure. The main implication this has is that you won’t be able to drive to and from your appointment. Therefore, you will need to ask a friend or family member to pick you up from the dental office. Also, you shouldn’t drink or eat anything 6 hours before the procedure.
Which procedures can be performed under general anesthesia?
Virtually, any dental procedure can be performed under general anesthesia. If you are looking into periodontics in Los Angeles, you should know that these procedures are often performed with the help of sedative drugs. The reason for this is that these procedures involve the manipulation of gum tissue and this can be uncomfortable, especially for people who experience anxiety at the dentist. In these cases, a periodontist near you can administer a drug that reduces anxiety.
Is sedative dentistry right for you?
Generally, if you are looking into this technique, then you will probably benefit from it. Fear of dental procedures is more common than you think, but this is not the only reason why sedatives can be considered. For example, some people are resistant to local anesthetics and have to resort to general anesthesia to avoid feeling pain. At your next dental appointment, ask your dentist about sedative dentistry near you to learn if you could benefit from it.