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Sedation Dentistry

Steven H. Chang, DDS

Family Dentists & General Dentists located in Monterey, CA

Does the thought of going to the dentist fill you with anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. Phobias and negative dental experiences can make patients wary of the dentist, but Steven H. Chang, DDS, and his team have the right solution for you at their office in Monterey, California. Sedation dentistry allows you to relax completely during your visit. For those with a dental phobia or sensitivity to pain, sedation dentistry is the easiest way to get the treatment you need. To schedule an appointment at the office of Steven H. Chang, DDS, call to speak with a team member or book online today.

Sedation Dentistry Q & A

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax, or even fall asleep, during your dental visit. While there are many different types of sedation, Dr. Chang and his team offer conscious sedation. This means you are awake and conscious but completely relaxed throughout your procedure.

How does sedation dentistry work? 

Dr. Chang and his team give you medication in the form of a pill about 30 minutes to one hour before your procedure. By the time your appointment begins, you should be conscious but very comfortable. It’s common to doze off while sedated, but you won’t fully fall asleep.

In most instances, you have no memory of your procedure after your visit. Unlike IV sedation, you don’t have to worry about needles or anesthesia. 

Why would I need sedation dentistry?

If the thought of going to the dentist makes you nervous or anxious, sedation dentistry can help calm your nerves. You may be a candidate for sedation dentistry if you’ve had:

  • Negative dental experiences in the past
  • A low tolerance for pain
  • Resistance to anesthetics
  • Fear of drills
  • Dental phobias
  • Severe anxiety
  • Complex dental problems
  • A poor gag reflex
  • Sensitivity to tastes, smells, and sounds
  • Behavioral issues

Sedation dentistry can help you form a better relationship with your dentist. By creating a relaxed, welcoming environment, Dr. Chang and his team can help relieve your fears of visiting the dentist.

What happens during sedation dentistry?

After administering your medication, Dr. Chang and his team wait the appropriate amount of time until you’re relaxed enough for your procedure. You feel no pain or discomfort during your visit. While you are conscious, you may not be aware of your surroundings. 

If you need extensive dental work that spans several appointments or more, sedation dentistry ensures that you won’t be alert or focused during your procedures. Instead, you can relax and unwind while Dr. Chang and his team complete your treatment.

What happens after sedation dentistry?

It’s important to coordinate with a trusted friend or family member before your appointment. You need someone to drive you home from your visit. As the medication wears off, you may feel groggy, tired, or out of it.

Sedation dentistry is the simplest way to get the dental work you need without fear or anxiety. To schedule an appointment at the office of Steven H. Chang, DDS, call or book online today.