One-way Dr. Garcia accomplishes this is by offering what is called sedation dentistry, which is a completely safe and effective way by which you can have an anxiety and fearless dental experience. One misconception of sedation therapy is that it puts you to sleep. The reality is that most sedatives used during dental work will allow you to remain conscious while also keeping you in a very relaxed and stress-free state. There are three forms of dental sedation that are typically used. Let us look at those.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, known as “laughing gas”, is a mild sedative that is administered through a nose hood throughout a dental procedure. Nitrous oxide behaves in a manner that will elevate the mood of the patient and give them a sense of wellbeing. Nitrous oxide will relieve dental anxiety and even reduces pain. Other than the patient feeling some tingling or numbing sensations, nitrous oxide offers very few side effects and has been a very safe method of sedation for years.

Oral Conscious Sedation

This is a great choice for those patients who fear needles. Before treatment, the patient is provided medication that is taken orally, which is meant to provide a moderate state of sedation. Oral sedation does not cause the patient to sleep but will dull the senses and can make it so that the patient does not remember any pain, smells, or noises which are associated with their procedure. Typically, on top of the medication provided before treatment, the patient may be topped off during the procedure if needed.

IV Sedation

This form of sedation is administered intravenously and is very quick to take effect. It is a moderately stronger form of sedation and can leave patients feeling a bit groggy afterward, making it important that the patient has a ride home.

If you are interested in learning more about how sedation therapy can help with your dental fear or anxiety, please give Bright Smiles Dental Studio in Glendale, CA, a call today at (818) 290-8788 .

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Myth #1 – Sedation blocks pain

Sedation induces a sense of peaceful relaxation or sleep. It calms anxiety centers in the brain, but it does not block or stop pain. Local numbing is used in conjunction with sedation.

• Dr. Garcia offers three types of sedation:
  Nitrous oxide – Inhaled gas produces a carefree emotional state quickly. It is a good choice for pediatric patients and anyone with anxiety about needles. The effect wears off immediately.
• Oral conscious sedation – A pill before your appointment provides hours of calming. This level of sedation helps to relax your body, too, so it is good for tense patients or long procedures.
• IV sedation – Administered into a vein, it produces a deeper level of relaxation, although you are not unconscious. Dosage can be adjusted during treatment, to ensure continued comfort.

Myth #2 – General anesthesia is just a bigger dose of sedation

General anesthesia is a different concept than sedation. Usually a combination of potent intravenous medication and inhaled gas, it anesthetizes the brain. Vital signs must be carefully monitored while under general anesthesia, since it depresses respiratory and cardiovascular function. General anesthesia is used for complex oral surgeries, such as impacted wisdom teeth.

Myth #3 – All dentists can use sedation

Technically, any dentist licensed to practice in California may administer nitrous oxide or prescribe most types of oral conscious sedation, so long as he or she has obtained proper permits. However, additional training and experience in sedation dentistry with patients of all ages is helpful.

General anesthesia may only be administered by a dentist who has completed an accredited advanced education program.

There is no mystery that you are in good hands with Dr. Garcia. Call (818) 290-8788 to schedule an appointment.

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Understand the source

Studies indicate three primary fears related to dental treatment:

• Loss of control – Not being able to see what is going on, participate in it, or anticipate what will happen next.
• Embarrassment – Fear of judgement about the condition of the mouth, or discomfort with someone in your personal space.
• Pain – The most common source of dental anxiety. Interestingly, it is often seen in younger patients, and those who are highly-educated.

Select the right practice

Overcoming dental phobia starts long before you are in the chair. Your treatment by the entire staff of the practice, not just the dentist, plays a vital role. A team that radiates genuine compassion during telephone contact, in the reception area, and in the treatment room, lays a foundation for trust. The practice environment, outside and inside, should be calming and welcoming, too. Anxiety levels soar in an atmosphere of confusion or haste.

If you feel rushed or treated like a number, not a person with valid concerns, find another dentist.

Ask for help

At Bright Smiles Dental Studio, all you need to do is let us know you are nervous about dental care. We have sedation options to ensure soothing experiences:

• Nitrous oxide, an inhaled gas.
• Oral sedation, in pill form.
• IV sedation, for deeper relaxation.

Please don’t wait another day to get your oral health back on track. Call (818) 290-8788 .

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More than “a case of nerves”

One of the most common applications of oral sedation is for patients who are fearful of dental appointments. Dr. Garcia does not take dental phobia lightly. He knows that this valid condition can keep patients from scheduling even routine checkups. He uses oral sedation, along with gentle treatment techniques, to help these individuals get the care they need.

Oral sedation is also advantageous for:

• Low pain threshold. The body tenses in response to pain. That causes additional tissue trauma, can result in a stiff jaw, and slows healing. Sedation helps to keep the body relaxed.
• Fear of needles. It is important to understand that sedation is not a pain block. Rather, it calms a patient so local numbing injections can be administered.
• Difficulty sitting still. Sedation is a good option for the patient with a physical condition that makes it hard to sit for the duration of treatment, or for someone who is quite restless.
• Sensitive gag reflex. Sedation reduces the reaction to instruments and hands in the mouth.
• Busy people. Maybe you can’t take time off work for several appointments for complex or multiple procedures. With sedation, the work can usually be completed in one visit.

 Offering oral sedation is just one example of Dr. Garcia’s dedication to the oral wellness of patients in the Glendale, CA area. That commitment extends the latest technologies, range of services provided, and the spirit of warmth and compassion felt throughout the office. Call 818-290-8788.

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• Will I need an IV? No. Intravenous sedation is an option at Bright Smiles Dental Studio, but we also offer nitrous oxide, an inhaled gas, and oral sedation in pill form.

• Will I feel pain? No, but sedation is not an anesthetic. It calms anxiety response in the brain, allowing us to administer numbing without upsetting you.

• Is it safe? Very. We take extra precautions to be sure there is no counter-indication based on your medical history or current medications. Your vital signs are monitored throughout treatment, and you are not left alone.

• Will I be unconscious? No. The types of sedation we use help you relax, but they do not “knock you out.” Some patients, however, doze off during treatment.
  

• Will I be able to breathe on my own? Absolutely. There is no need for oxygen or a breathing tube.

• What if I need to use the restroom? Signal any member of our team, and we will guide you safely.
  

• Will I be able to let you know if I have discomfort? Yes. Our goal is to provide pain free dentistry, and we verbally check on your wellbeing periodically. However, should you feel any unusual discomfort, you can easily tell us.
  

• Will I heal slower? Quite the contrary. When your mind is free of anxiety, your body relaxes. That allows treatment to progress efficiently, reducing tissue trauma for speedier healing.

Call Bright Smiles Dental Studio at (818) 290-8788 to get started on your heathy smile with sedation dentistry.

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