Many people dread going to the dentist, and you may be one of those people. Maybe you remember a negative dental experience when you were a child or have fears and anxiety about the treatment you will receive. Dental anxiety is natural and varies in severity from person to person. If you suffer from dental anxiety, the dental experts at Cabrillo Family Dental Care want to help you. Our staff wants your dental experience to be painless and stress-free; sedation dentistry is one way to make that happen.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Our Pacifica, CA, dental office offers three different levels of sedation dentistry to help you relax during your dental procedure. They include:

• Low-level sedation—We use nitrous oxide to help you relax, but you won’t have any side effects after the appointment. You can continue with your day after your appointment.
• Moderate sedation—We can prescribe a pill that you take one hour before your dental appointment. For this type of sedation, you will be deeply relaxed. You will need a driver and some recovery time.
• Deep sedation—For more complicated procedures or severe dental anxiety, we may recommend deep IV sedation where you are asleep during the procedure. You will also require a driver for this type of sedation, as well as a longer recovery time.

Why Should You Consider Sedation Dentistry?

There are six viable reasons you should consider sedation dentistry if your dentist recommends it. They are:

1. If you are afraid of going to the dentist or having a dental procedure, sedation dentistry will keep you calm during your appointment.

2. Often, time stands still when you are in the dental chair. Sedation dentistry relaxes you enough that time will go by more quickly.

3. If you need extensive dental work, you may have to make several trips to the dentist. However, with sedation dentistry, you can make fewer visits. Since you will be relaxed, the dentist can work longer in one visit.

4. Some patients have a gag reflex, making completing dental work difficult and uncomfortable. Sedation dentistry can keep your gag reflex at bay, so your appointment doesn’t take quite as much time.

5. If you have sensitive teeth and gums, sedation dentistry can keep you comfortable during your appointment.

6. Many patients have a difficult time sitting still for dental work. Sedation dentistry is a way to calm the patient and keep them still for the necessary time.

Need More Information?

If you have dental anxiety issues or questions about sedation dentistry in Pacifica, CA, contact our dental office at (650) 359-1646. We will be happy to ease your mind and help you get the dental care you need.