Sedation Dentistry Truckee, CA

Dr. Jason Baldwin and the dental care team understand the fear and anxiety that many people face when it comes to attending to their oral health. We work with patients to try to identify the root cause of their dental fear or to establish ways to relax and feel calm when visiting with us. Our Truckee dentist office is designed with this in mind and radiates a spa-like atmosphere that will have you asking if you opened the right door when you walk in!

Dental Sedation in Truckee, CA

We offer many techniques and tips for your comfort as well as sedation options for complete relaxation- and no memory afterward.

Topical & Local Anesthetics

We begin with a topical solution that pre-numbs the injection area. Then the local anesthesia is used to completely numb the area being treated. This temporarily blocks feeling to the nerve and should last one to two hours or longer.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

that nitrous oxide gas (laughing gas) is the treatment of choice for highly apprehensive patients. The attitude changes are usually astounding. Someone who was anxious about going into treatment is now completely relaxed.

Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation dentistry addresses the fears that keep people from going to the dentist on a regular basis. Therefore, phobic patients who opt for oral conscious sedation are more likely to receive recommended routine care. As a result, they are less likely to neglect their oral health or allow oral health problems to build to the point when drastic dental treatments become necessary.

In addition, if you are reluctant to change the appearance of your smile because you are afraid or anxious about undergoing long or complicated dental procedures, oral conscious sedation dentistry can make you feel comfortable during the treatment process and help you achieve a smile you can be proud of.

Tips For Reducing Dental Anxiety & Fear

  • Communication – While it can be challenging to speak about concerns and fears with a stranger, Dr. Baldwin can take additional precautions during visits if fears and anxiety are conveyed. That way, together, we may identify the root cause of your anxiety and can work together to alleviate these types of problems.
  • Bring a portable music player – Music will act as a relaxant as well as drowns out any fear-producing sounds. Hearing some soothing music throughout this visit will lower anxiousness.
  • Decide on a signal – Many individuals are afraid the dentist will not likely know they are in significant pain while in the appointment and will carry on the treatment no matter what. The easiest way to solve this problem is to decide on a “stop” hand signal together with the dentist. Both sides can easily comprehend signs like raising their hand or gently tapping on the seat.
  • Spray the throat – Throat sprays (such as Vicks® Chloraseptic® Throat Spray) may actually control the gag reflex. 2 or 3 sprays will often keep the reflex in check for about one hour.
  • Take a mirror with you – Not having the ability to view what is happening can increase anxiety and make the mind run wild. Watching the process can help keep reality at the forefront of the mind.
  • Sedation – Choosing a comfortable level of sedation provides an outstanding option for many.
  • Discuss the treatment – Please let us know the extent and depth of treatment plan explanations you require.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

What Type of Patients is Most Likely to Need Sedation Dentistry?

Patients considering sedation dentistry often have anxiety or a bad past experience that makes them nervous about going to the dentist or a specific procedure. Some reasons for this choice may be phobias of dental procedures, a scary or bad past experience with dentists, sensitive nerves, a small mouth, or a general anxiety disorder. If you want to learn more about sedation dentistry, ask your dentist about your options.

Are there side effects related to sedation?

Patients can experience headaches after sedation for a dental procedure. They may also experience nausea or a loss of appetite. These Symptoms occur in most people post sedation, so they are not a concern until it has passed 48 hours post-operation.

What can I do after I have been sedated?

Levels of sedation vary from patient to patient, so it is important to ensure that you have someone around to help you for at least 24 hours after your operation. It is also important not to drive for 24 hours after sedation. Many people sleep after sedation so that they do not feel any of the negative side effects, such as headaches and nausea.

How long does it take for sedation to wear off?

The sedation gradually wears off during the course of the day after the operation. Patients start feeling normal between 6-8 hours after the operation. Most patients are able to return to their normal work and activities within 24 hours of the procedure.

Is IV sedation the same as laughing gas?

No, IV sedation and laughing gas (nitrous oxide) are two different forms of sedation used in dentistry. A dentist will administer IV sedation through a vein, and it provides deep relaxation. It could also possibly make patients drowsy or lightly asleep.

On the other hand, dentists use laughing gas for minor procedures. Patients inhale it through a mask, offering a milder, relaxed state. You will remain awake and can respond. Above all,  laughing gas and IV sedation are not interchangeable drugs. They both provide different levels of sedation.

Who should not get IV sedation?

While IV sedation is generally safe, it does carry risks for some patients. Patients with severe lung disease should not have IV sedation. Additionally, patients with a history of sleep apnea and liver or kidney disease should not receive IV sedation. Lastly, pregnant women, children under 12, and patients with uncontrolled heart disease should not have IV sedation.

Schedule a Dental Exam with our Dentist in Truckee, CA

Looking for a Lake Tahoe CA dentist? Or a Tahoe City CA area dentist that works with people who have been suffering from poor oral health due to dental anxiety or a fear of the dentist? Dr. Baldwin is currently accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment to talk about all relaxation and sedation choices with Dr. Baldwin and select the one that is effective and produces minimal anxiety.