Sedation/Sleep Dentistry in Redondo Beach

A visit to the dentist is not always fun, yet it is an essential part of life. If you find that the idea of visiting the dentist or going through a dental procedure fills you with fear and anxiety, then Dr. Aria Asemi may recommend a form of sedation to help ease the anxiety and make you feel comfortable enough to receive the dental care you need.

Sedation Dentistry aka Sleep Dentistry

There are different sedation techniques that can be used to relax dental patients before and during in-office treatment. Dental sedation is different from pain management. The latter involves localized numbing agents in your jaw and tooth. Dental sedation can help you relax and take your mind off the treatment process entirely. Depending on your level of dental anxiety and the complexity of your treatment, Dr. Aria Asemi may recommend one of the following types of dental sedation:

1. IV Sedation can be delivered in a manner that keeps you conscious (twilight IV sedation), or as general anesthesia where you’ll be asleep or totally unconscious for the entire treatment. This is commonly used for oral surgery and full mouth rehabilitations. IV sedation makes you feel sleepy and relaxed. You will wake up when the procedure is over and will have a driver take you home. You’re unlikely to remember anything once the procedure is over.

2. Nitrous Oxide Sedation or laughing gas is usually given before dental procedures to help patients relax. The gas is inhaled with an apparatus placed over your nose. The effects are mild to moderate and you will be conscious (awake) during the procedure. The effects wear off within a few minutes of removing the apparatus. Nitrous oxide can be used alone, or in combination with oral sedation if stronger sedation is desired while keeping the patient awake.