“Dedicated to Enhancing Your Smile with Exceptional Care and Expertise”.
Sedation dentistry is designed to help patients feel calmer and more comfortable during dental treatment. It is often considered for people with dental anxiety, longer procedures, a sensitive gag reflex, or difficulty relaxing in the dental chair. Depending on the type used, sedation can help make care feel more manageable while patients remain comfortable throughout the visit.
DDS, FICOI, DICOI, Associate Fellow, AAID
Sedation dentistry uses medication to reduce stress and support a more relaxed dental experience. Common options include nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and intravenous (IV) sedation, with the choice based on the procedure, the patient’s health history, and their level of anxiety.
Sedation dentistry may be recommended for patients who feel fearful about dental visits, need more time in the chair, or have trouble staying comfortable during treatment. It can also be useful for people with strong anxiety, very sensitive teeth, or a gag reflex that makes routine care more difficult.
Nitrous oxide is a fast-acting inhaled option that helps patients relax during treatment.
Oral conscious sedation is usually taken before the appointment and is intended to help patients feel deeply calm while still able to respond to instructions from the dental team.
IV sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation and may be considered for more complex procedures or for patients with significant dental anxiety.
The American Dental Association notes that sedation and anesthesia in dentistry should be delivered safely and effectively by appropriately educated and trained dentists in accordance with applicable laws and guidelines.
One of the main benefits of sedation dentistry is that it can make treatment feel less stressful and more approachable for patients who would otherwise delay care. It may also help dentists complete needed treatment more efficiently when patients are calm and comfortable.
Before recommending sedation, the dental team should review your medical history, current medications, and the details of your procedure. For oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, patients may need to follow instructions about eating and drinking beforehand and arrange for someone to drive them home after the appointment.
A consultation is the best way to determine whether sedation dentistry is appropriate and which option best fits your needs, comfort level, and treatment plan.
Our infection control measures ensure your care is both safe and comfortable. Your safety and well-being are our top priority, and we always employ the highest level of precautions to prevent the spread of infection.
Angela Leung DDS PC – The Endodontics Implant Center
1131 Mission Road, South San Francisco, CA 94080
Phone: 415-681-2697
Hours: Monday–Friday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Saturday & Sunday closed)
If you’re dealing with missing teeth, failing dental work, or full-mouth breakdown, the fastest relief is clarity.