Sedation Dentistry in San Francisco
For some people, the idea of undergoing dental treatment provokes feelings of stress and anxiety. The ramifications can be quite serious; according to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, nearly 30 percent of the general population avoids the dentist altogether because they are afraid. Avoiding professional dental care may compromise a person’s dental health; in the worst cases, dental problems progress alarmingly and have implications on general health, too (for example, an infection in the mouth can spread throughout the body).
Dr. Samir Ayoub has compassion for individuals that put off much-needed dental care because they are afraid. He is a natural-born problem solver that tries to work around these fears to help his patients receive the care they need. One of his solutions is to offer sedation dentistry techniques, which are designed to reduce or even eliminate fear and stress and make the treatment experience more comfortable.
Can Sedation Dentistry Help Me?
Dr. Ayoub generally recommends sedation dentistry to patients that experience any of the following:
- Stress or anxiety about dental treatment
- Trauma from a negative experience in the past
- Overactive gag reflex
- Extremely sensitive teeth
- Difficulty getting numb
- Need for extensive dental treatment in a short amount of time
To learn whether sedation dentistry is right for you, schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Ayoub. During your consultation, he will inquire about your medical history and current health condition, and discuss your sedation options. Together, you will select the most appropriate technique.
Sedation Dentistry Techniques
Nitrous oxide
More commonly known as “laughing gas,” is a mild sedation technique suitable for patients that experience mild to moderate dental anxiety. The nitrous oxide is administered through a small mask placed over your nose. You will breathe in the nitrous oxide prior to and during your treatment. The gas will put you in a relaxed, conscious state; you will be able to respond to verbal cues, but you will not feel any pain or discomfort. As soon as the mask is removed, the effects of the nitrous oxide will wear off.
Oral sedatives
Small pills intended for patients with moderate dental anxiety. They are prescribed by a doctor and should be taken about an hour prior to coming into the office. The medicine produces a calming effect. When you take the pill, you will feel a little drowsy and less aware of what is happening during treatment. You will not be able to drive, so you must designate a driver to take you to and from your appointment.
Intravenous (IV) sedation
Involves delivering sedative medication into your bloodstream through a needle in your arm or hand. This blocks the pain impulses from the teeth and gum tissue. You will not be bothered by any discomfort during treatment, nor will you have any recollection of your experience after treatment.
Contact Our San Francisco Dentist Today
If the thought of dental treatment makes you nervous or anxious, Dr. Ayoub wants to help. He can design a plan to address your anxieties and give you the dental care that you need. To learn more about your sedation dentistry options, please contact our office today by calling (415) 781-2227.
