Sedation Dentistry in San Diego
Comfortable, anxiety-free dental care for nervous patients
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses safe, controlled medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. At Carmel Mountain Dentist, Dr. Irene Olaes offers various sedation options to ensure your comfort and peace of mind during dental treatment.
With over 25 years of experience serving the San Diego community, Dr. Olaes understands that dental anxiety affects millions of people. Our sedation dentistry options help you receive the dental care you need without fear or discomfort.
Types of Sedation We Offer:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
- Oral Conscious Sedation
- IV Sedation (when appropriate)
- Combined Sedation Techniques
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Discover how sedation dentistry can transform your dental experience and help you achieve optimal oral health.
Eliminate dental fear and anxiety, making your visit comfortable and stress-free.
Minimal memory of the procedure helps create positive associations with dental care.
Complete multiple procedures in a single visit while you're comfortable and relaxed.
Enhanced comfort during procedures with reduced sensitivity and discomfort.
Reduced gag reflex allows for more comfortable treatment, especially for sensitive patients.
Most sedation options wear off quickly, allowing you to return to normal activities soon.
Ideal for patients with special needs, ADHD, or difficulty sitting still during treatment.
Relaxed patients allow for more precise work and better overall treatment results.
Regular dental visits become possible, leading to better preventive care and oral health.
What to Expect During Sedation Dentistry
Our sedation process is carefully planned and monitored to ensure your safety and comfort throughout your visit.
Dr. Olaes reviews your medical history and discusses sedation options best suited for your needs and anxiety level.
Receive detailed preparation instructions, including eating restrictions and transportation arrangements.
Your chosen sedation is carefully administered while we monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure.
Receive your dental treatment while relaxed and comfortable, with continuous monitoring for your safety.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Recovery:
- • Rest in our comfortable recovery area
- • Continuous monitoring until fully alert
- • Arrange transportation home with a responsible adult
- • Receive detailed post-treatment instructions
Post-Treatment Care:
- • Rest for the remainder of the day
- • Avoid driving or operating machinery
- • Stay hydrated and eat light foods
- • Follow all medication instructions
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry helps a wide range of patients receive comfortable dental care in our Carmel Mountain office.
If you experience fear, nervousness, or panic attacks when thinking about dental visits, sedation can help you receive necessary care comfortably.
Patients with an overactive gag reflex that makes dental procedures difficult or impossible to complete comfortably.
Those requiring multiple procedures or lengthy treatments can benefit from completing work in fewer, more comfortable appointments.
Individuals with ADHD, autism, or other conditions that make it difficult to remain still during dental procedures.
Patients who have had negative dental experiences in the past and need help overcoming associated fears and anxiety.
Those who are particularly sensitive to pain or discomfort during dental procedures, even with local anesthesia.
Busy professionals or parents who need to maximize their dental treatment time with comprehensive care in fewer visits.
Patients with TMJ disorders or jaw pain who find it uncomfortable to keep their mouth open for extended periods.
What Our Patients Say
Real experiences from patients who chose sedation dentistry
"I hadn't been to a dentist in over 10 years because of severe dental anxiety. Dr. Olaes and her team made me feel so comfortable with oral sedation. I was able to get all my needed work done in two comfortable visits. I actually look forward to my cleanings now!"
"My son has ADHD and usually can't sit still for more than a few minutes. With nitrous oxide, he was able to complete his entire treatment calmly. Dr. Olaes was amazing with him, and the sedation made all the difference. Highly recommend!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about sedation dentistry at our San Diego practice
Yes, sedation dentistry is very safe when administered by experienced professionals like Dr. Olaes. We carefully monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure and use proven sedation techniques. Our team is trained in sedation protocols and emergency procedures, ensuring your safety at all times.
With conscious sedation (nitrous oxide and oral sedation), you remain awake but deeply relaxed. You may feel drowsy and have little memory of the procedure afterward. IV sedation can provide deeper levels of relaxation while still maintaining your ability to respond to instructions.
Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes after the mask is removed. Oral sedation effects can last 2-6 hours, while IV sedation may last several hours. We provide detailed recovery instructions and ensure you're alert before leaving our office. You'll need a responsible adult to drive you home.
Preparation varies by sedation type. For oral or IV sedation, you typically shouldn't eat or drink for several hours beforehand. Arrange transportation to and from your appointment. Wear comfortable clothing and remove contact lenses. We'll provide specific instructions based on your chosen sedation method.
Yes, sedation can be safely used for children, especially those with dental anxiety or special needs. Nitrous oxide is commonly used for pediatric patients. Dr. Olaes carefully evaluates each child's needs and medical history to determine the safest and most appropriate sedation option.
Insurance coverage for sedation varies by plan and the reason for sedation. Some plans cover sedation for medical necessity, such as special needs patients or extensive procedures. Our office staff will help verify your benefits and explain your coverage options during your consultation.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) provides mild relaxation and wears off quickly. Oral sedation uses pills for moderate relaxation and anxiety relief. IV sedation offers precise control over sedation levels for deeper relaxation. Dr. Olaes will recommend the best option based on your anxiety level, procedure length, and medical history.
Related Dental Services
Explore our other general dentistry services
Ready for Comfortable, Anxiety-Free Dental Care?
Schedule your sedation dentistry consultation with Dr. Olaes today