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Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry has changed the way many of our patients think about going to the dentist. Instead of feeling overcome with worry, fear, tension, or anxiety, patients are able to relax comfortably while they receive the treatment they need to regain healthy mouths and beautiful smiles. At Libby Dental, we offer a variety of sedation options to suit your needs and deliver a top-quality experience. Your safety and comfort are always our first priorities.

At Libby Dental, we go at your pace. Whether you need a gentle cleaning or a restorative procedure like a dental crown, our heart is invested in helping you feel better, all the way through. Call us at (619) 276-6884 to speak with our staff about your options for sedation dentistry.

To learn more about sedation dentistry, please explore the informative sections provided below:

“I do sedation dentistry every day. It opens up avenues for people who have been away from the dentist for sometimes 20 years at a time. Patients come in crying because they’re so terrified. We’re able to get a lot of work done and get to see the light go on again, dignity restored. It’s an incredible thing to see.”
Dr. Landon Libby
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What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a therapeutic dental treatment that utilizes various sedative medications to reduce fear, anxiety, and/or discomfort during dental work. This option has helped patients all over the nation receive necessary dental care and overcome dental anxiety. For patients with a sensitive gag reflex or who are sensitive to treatment, sedation dentistry has made dental care possible.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right for Me?

Sedation during dental care can provide a broad range of benefits for patients with various needs and sensitivities. Sedation dentistry can be an ideal solution for individuals who:

  • Have extreme fear or anxiety about going to the dentist
  • Do not respond well to local anesthesia techniques
  • Have very sensitive teeth or gums
  • Require extensive, invasive, and/or complex dental care
  • Desire to complete several dental procedures in one sitting
  • Have a hyperactive gag reflex
  • Have a difficult time relaxing in the dental chair during treatment

If you think that sedation dentistry may be beneficial for you, we encourage you to contact Libby Dental to schedule a consultation and discuss the options we offer. Our team can help match your needs with the most suitable sedation option available.

What are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

If you find yourself skipping your semi-annual dental appointments or neglecting routine care due to your anxieties, sedation dentistry can help. Our monitored and ADA-approved sedation protocols have allowed many patients to receive the treatment they need without fear or extensive discomfort. Depending on your unique needs, sedation dentistry can allow you to:

  • Undergo treatment without uneasiness or anxiety
  • Have a more relaxed experience in the dentist’s chair
  • Receive sedation while remaining awake and conscious
  • Address minor concerns before they worsen and become more complex problems

By making it easier for anxious patients to treat mild dental issues before they exacerbate, sedation dentistry can help individuals avoid the time and expense of more invasive treatments. Dr. Libby and our team would be happy to listen to your concerns and discuss the benefits and risks of complementing your treatment with sedation dentistry, if desired.

Sedation Dentistry - Is this right for you?

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“I recently have had Dental work done at Libby Dental. My choice, was sedation as I was getting a lot of work done. Dr. Libby and his staff greet you with warm and comforting smiles. They review everything with you up front so that you can make the best choice for your dental care. I am grateful for there services, professionalism and family atmosphere. My trust has been restored, and I can't wait to flash my Libby Smile.”
Tracy F.

What Types Of Sedation Dentistry Are Available?

At Libby Dental, we offer two types of sedation that can help you feel at ease in the dentist’s chair. Each level of sedation offers unique advantages that can be suitable for a wide range of dental treatments.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation comes in two forms: an easily-consumed pill crushed up and put under the tongue to dissolve and a small amount of liquid medication. These medications are administered in the office. You’ll get to feel the ease and relaxation gently coaxing its way over you as you remain conscious and in control throughout your treatment.

Iv Sedation

IV sedation is a form of deep sedation used more commonly in cases where complex dental work is done, such as a full mouth reconstruction. This form of sedation is administered by a dental anesthesiologist that we bring to the office to work alongside Dr. Libby.

What Are The Side Effects Of Sedation Dentistry?

It is common to feel drowsy, light headed, and a bit groggy after receiving sedation. With oral conscious sedation and IV sedation, you will need to make arrangements for a ride home with a friend or family member after your procedure, as you are not able to resume normal activities until the following day. We recommend a friend or family member remain with you for the duration of the day.

How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?

Sedation dentistry costs are customized for each patient based on the details of their personalized treatment plan. The price generally depends on factors like:

  • The type of sedation administered
  • The amount of sedation necessary

Libby Dental accepts dental financing from qualified patients via CareCredit®. This reputable financier is frequently utilized to help make the costs of elective treatments more affordable. If you have any questions about the cost of sedation dentistry or what to expect when you visit our office, please don’t hesitate to contact our Mission Valley practice today.

What Treatments Can Be Complemented with Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is generally utilized during more extensive or invasive treatment plans, such as a Smile Makeover or full mouth rehabilitation. These multi-part dental plans can sometimes involve oral surgery procedures, such as dental implants and/or tooth extraction. In these cases, sedation dentistry can be very beneficial in enhancing patient comfort during the process of reconstructing your smile. Sedation can also be administered during singular dental implant and tooth extraction procedures, respectively. Other treatments that commonly utilize sedation dentistry include:

  • Implant dentures and All-on-4®
  • Implant-supported bridges
  • Root canal therapy
  • Wisdom teeth removal
  • Bone grafting

Dr. Libby can speak with you to discuss whether you would benefit from adding sedation to your treatment plan. For less invasive services like porcelain veneers and cosmetic bonding, most patients do not consider dental sedation necessary.

Additional Sedation Dentistry FAQs

Will I be awake during my treatment?

In most cases, patients are able to stay awake during their treatment with the exception of situations requiring more complex dental work. Dr. Libby and our team will let you know exactly what to expect during your sedation, but in general, those receiving oral conscious sedation are able to remain awake and alert to their treatment while still having a more relaxing, comfortable experience. With administration of IV sedation, many patients fall asleep during their procedure. In these cases, patients are under the care and supervision of a board-certified dental anesthesiologist.

Can I drive home after getting dental anesthesia?

No, since it will take some time after your appointment for the sedative to wear off, you will need to arrange for a ride home from our office with a friend or loved one. While patients are typically awake and conscious at the end of their treatment, feelings of dizziness, grogginess, or lightheadedness may linger. In the interest of your safety, it’s prohibited to drive for at least 24 hours when treatment is complemented by dental sedation.

How long will it take for the sedation to wear off?

The effects of oral conscious sedation and IV sedation usually take a full 24 hours to wear off, although patients may feel back to their normal selves sooner. This timeframe varies from patient to patient, but rest assured our team will let you know what you can expect before you receive sedation.

Can children receive dental anesthesia?

We do not administer sedation to patients under the age of 13. At Libby Dental, Dr. Libby is trained to administer dental sedation for younger patients and adults safely and effectively. He also works with a board-certified dental anesthesiologist when necessary to help ensure the safest possible treatment.

How do I know if I need sedation dentistry?

There are several signs that may indicate that you would benefit from sedation dentistry. If you have strong feelings of apprehension or dread at the thought of your next dental appointment, sedation can help you have a more stress-free visit. Skipping your regular appointments and/or going years without visiting the dentist are other signs that you may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry. It’s important to remember that nervousness before an appointment is very normal, and levels of anxiety or fear prior to visiting the dentist often vary in severity. We encourage you to communicate your feelings to our compassionate dental team so we can help you get the dental care you need, safely and comfortably.

Are you waiting for the day when you can go in to see the dentist and come out still beaming wide? As your family and cosmetic dentist in Mission Valley, Dr. Libby encourages you to make the call at (619) 762-4549 to ask us how we may help you.