Dental anxiety is extremely common; in fact, studies estimate that up to 80% of Americans experience some level of nervousness or fear when visiting the dentist.¹ This issue can stem from a variety of past experiences – such as a difficult childhood visit, previous dental trauma, or even stories shared by others.

Whatever the cause, you are not alone!

Recognizing and addressing dental anxiety can be a crucial step toward getting the care you need. When fear is managed effectively, it’s much easier to stay on track with regular checkups, catch issues early, and undergo important procedures without delay.

For patients who experience dental anxiety or simply want added peace of mind during more involved procedures, our Newport Beach dentists – Drs. Lance Alder, Jacob Barton, and Ereni Sellas – can administer sedation dentistry options. These advanced techniques are designed to help you relax and feel completely at ease in the dental chair.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry refers to the use of medication to help patients feel calm, comfortable, and anxiety-free during dental procedures. These treatments are tailored to each patient’s needs, ranging from light relaxation to complete unconsciousness depending on the type of sedation used. If you are in good general health, you are likely a candidate for one of the sedation techniques outlined below.

What Types of Sedation Dentistry Are Available?

At Newport Beach Dental, we offer several forms of sedation to accommodate varying levels of dental anxiety and the complexity of your procedure.

Local Anesthesia

For most routine treatments, such as fillings and crowns, we typically use a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Before the injection, a topical numbing agent is applied to help you feel minimal to no discomfort.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide, often called “laughing gas,” is an inhaled sedative that can help you feel calm and relaxed during your visit. Delivered through a comfortable nosepiece, this mild sedation generally takes effect within minutes and wears off quickly once the gas is turned off, allowing you to drive yourself home afterward. Nitrous oxide can be a great option for patients with mild to moderate anxiety or those who want added comfort without lingering drowsiness.²

Oral Sedation

If we determine that oral sedation is your best option, you’ll be given a prescribed sedative pill to take at home about an hour before your appointment. By the time you arrive, you should already feel calm and relaxed. With oral sedation, it’s important to arrange transportation to and from your visit, as the effects can linger for several hours.

IV Sedation

For more complex or lengthy procedures or for patients with severe dental phobia, IV sedation may be the ideal solution. This form of sedation is administered intravenously and induces a deeper state of relaxation, often with little to no memory of the procedure. For your safety and comfort, we’ll bring in a licensed anesthesiologist to administer and monitor your IV sedation throughout the appointment.

Experience the Gentle Difference

Our compassionate team understands how important it is to feel at ease during your dental visit. As such, we’re committed to earning your trust and demonstrating that dental care can be both comfortable and positive. From your first visit to every step of treatment, we are here to support you and help make each experience as smooth and reassuring as possible. For more information, feel free to contact us today!

Sedation Dentistry