San Francisco Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is used widely by dentists in San Francisco and other metropolitan areas. Used to treat anxiety in both children and adults, conscious sedation is one of the most progressive techniques in the industry. It relies on cutting edge pharmacological agents to help patients participate actively in treatment without being overcome by fear and worry.

Reducing Anxiety Safely

Anxiety is not only tough on the patient; it can be really challenging for the dentist as well. When patients start to sense real (or perceived) threat, they reflexively close their mouths and open their eyes. This is a natural response, but one that makes it tough for dentists and hygienists to work. It creates a cycle in which dentists are continually battling the repeatedly closing, clenched jaws of their patients.

A much more effective solution is to tackle anxiety at the outset. Although there are many very effective techniques for eliminating pain, very few address the psychological distress that accompanies a dental visit. Thus, it is not uncommon to see people remain highly anxious and difficult to treat even after an injection of a topical anesthetic.

Conscious sedation offers a far more effective solution. It uses nitrous oxide to induce an altered state of consciousness in which a patient can speak, respond, and even walk around without feeling pain or distress. In many cases, patients report that they do not remember the procedure at all, and simply remember entering and exiting the office for the appointment. Indeed, sedation dentistry offers an easy solution for a very difficult dental problem.