Sedation Dentistry is a technique used to calm and relax you using sedatives during dental procedures. It is primarily used on patients who have fear or anxiety when they visit their dentist.

What is Conscious Sedation Dentistry?

Conscious Sedation Dentistry is like Sedation Dentistry in that it is used to calm you during your procedure using sedatives. The difference is that you are still minimally conscious. You will still be able to respond to stimulation and Dr. Loye’s verbal commands. You may still doze off some of the time.

What are the ways sedation can be administered during my procedure?

There are two ways Dr. Loye can get you into a relaxed state. One is through taking a pill orally. The type of pill depends on your age, weight, overall health, and level of anxiety. The second is through nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas.” This is the most common type of medication given to keep patients relaxed. Both types of sedation are extremely safe.

How do I know if I’m a candidate for Conscious Sedation Dentistry?

Candidates for Conscious Sedation Dentistry:
•Have neck or back problems
•Cannot get numb during a typical procedure
•Suffer a level of fear or anxiety (“dental phobia”)
•Have acute or chronic soreness in their jaw
•Struggle with their gag reflex
•Have a history of other health problems

What are the side-effects of Conscious Sedation Dentistry?

Temporary side-effects may include hiccups, drowsiness, dry mouth, or retrograde amnesia. The latter means that you may not remember some or all of your procedure. It depends on how your body reacts to the medication, but is characteristic of someone who has a high degree of dental phobia.

What is the benefit of Conscious Sedation Dentistry?

If you suffer from any dental phobia or other problems that make you a good candidate, then the biggest benefit is that you will remain calm and relaxed. Because of this, you are less likely to have soreness after your procedure and will not have to take further medications. You are also more likely to recover quickly because you were relaxed during your procedure.

If you are interested in finding out more about Conscious Sedation Dentistry in the San Diego, California area, please contact Dr. Loye to set up an initial consultation. He will be happy to answer any questions you have.