Sedation Dentistry in La Jolla – Stress−Free and Comfortable Dental Care
An excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.
For many people, a trip to the dentist creates anxiety. At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we understand that dental fear prevents some patients from getting the care they need. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry—a safe, effective way to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental visits.
Whether you experience mild anxiety, severe dental phobia, or difficulty sitting through long treatments, our gentle sedation options make the best care possible. From routine cleanings to complex dental procedures, we provide a calm, pain-free experience that helps you get the care you deserve.
An excellent way to provide a safe, anxiety free, dental experience to those who are afraid of the dentist.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is especially beneficial for our valued patients who:
- ~ Experience dental anxiety or phobia
- ~ Have a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth
- ~ Require extensive or multiple treatments in one visit
- ~ Have a strong gag reflex
- ~ Have difficulty sitting still for long periods
Sedation dentistry allows patients to feel at ease while receiving the dental care they need. At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we customize sedation levels to fit each patient’s needs to create a safe and comfortable experience.
Types of Sedation Available To You
We offer several sedation options depending on the level of relaxation required:
Nitrous Oxide Laughing Gas
- Mild sedation administered through a mask.
- Helps you feel relaxed and at ease while remaining fully conscious.
- Wears off quickly so you can resume normal activities after your appointment.
Oral Sedation Pill Sedation
- A prescribed oral medication taken before your appointment.
- Provides moderate sedation, making you feel drowsy but still awake.
- You may have little to no memory of the procedure.
- Requires someone to drive you home after your visit.
IV Sedation Intravenous Sedation
- Administered through an IV for deeper relaxation.
- Patients remain conscious but deeply relaxed.
- Ideal for those undergoing lengthy procedures or with severe dental anxiety.
- Requires a responsible adult to drive you home.
General Anesthesia Sleep Dentistry
- Patients are completely asleep and unaware during the procedure.
- Used for complex oral surgeries or extreme dental phobia.
- Performed in a hospital or surgical setting.
What to Expect During Sedation Dentistry
Our team want you to feel comfortable throughout the sedation process:
Consultation and Assessment
- Discuss your medical history and anxiety levels.
- Determine the best sedation option for you.
- Explain the procedure, benefits, and safety measures.
Preparing for Sedation
- You may need to avoid food and drink before your appointment.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home (for oral, IV, or general sedation).
Receiving Sedation and Treatment
- Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask.
- Oral sedation is taken an hour before the procedure.
- IV sedation is administered for deeper relaxation.
- Our team monitors your vital signs for a safe experience.
Recovery and Post−Sedation Care
- Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, allowing you to return to daily activities.
- Oral and IV sedation require rest at home after the procedure.
- We discuss detailed post-care instructions with you for a smooth recovery.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
- Eliminates Fear & Anxiety – Feel calm and relaxed throughout your care.
- Pain-Free Experience – Reduced discomfort and sensitivity.
- Faster Treatment – Multiple procedures can be completed in one visit.
- Minimal Memory of the Procedure – Especially helpful for those with dental phobia.
- Ideal for Sensitive Patients – Great for individuals with a strong gag reflex or difficulty getting numb.
Who is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is an excellent option for many patients, including those who:
- ~ Experience dental anxiety or phobia
- ~ Need multiple visits or complex treatments
- ~ Have a low pain tolerance
- ~ Struggle with sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex
- ~ Memories of negative past dental experiences
- ~ Challenged to sit still for long procedures
Our team considers your medical history and dental needs to determine the best sedation option for you.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes! Sedation dentistry is very safe when administered by trained professionals. At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we:
- ~ Monitor vital signs throughout the entire procedure.
- ~ Adjust sedation levels based on your unique needs.
- ~ Provide thorough pre- and post-treatment care instructions.
- ~ Use the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment for your safety.
Our team considers your medical history and dental needs to determine the best sedation option for you.
Meet Our
La Jolla Dentists
Dr. Bo Ah Kim
Dr. Bo Ah Kim pursued her passion for dentistry at Columbia University, College of Dental Medicine in New York City, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2007. Her training in general dentistry equips her with the skills to perform a broad range of procedures from basic fillings and crowns to complex full mouth reconstructions and TMJ Botox injections. Dr. Kim is renowned for her dedication to patient care, making communication and comfort the cornerstones of her practice.
Dr. Hyung Jin Bae
Accreditations
Wonderful Words from our Patients
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
~ Alice Hou
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
Comprehensive
Dental Services
Innovator in Periodontics and Dental Implantology
At La Jolla Dental Wellness, Dr. Hyung Jin Bae is a board-certified periodontist specializing in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease (also known as periodontal disease). Our periodontic treatments include deep cleanings, bone grafts, and dental implant placement. Get exceptional results with scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
You get
- ~ In-Depth Consultation
- ~ 3D Imaging
- ~ Local anesthetic for comfort
- ~ Reducing the risk of tooth loss
Simple Payment Options
Insurance Coverage
Visit La Jolla Dental Wellness
Hours
Monday – Tuesday 9am-5pm
Wednesday – CLOSED
Thursday – Friday 9am-5pm
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Will I be completely unconscious during sedation?
It depends on the type of sedation. With nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, you will be relaxed but still responsive. With general anesthesia, you will be completely asleep.
How long does it take for sedation to wear off?
Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, while oral and IV sedation may require a few hours resting at home for full recovery.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
If you receive oral sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home.
Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Some insurance plans cover sedation for certain procedures. We can check your benefits and provide affordable financing options.
Is sedation safe for children?
Yes! We offer safe sedation options for children who experience dental anxiety or require extensive treatment.
Experience Stress−Free Dentistry in La Jolla
At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we believe that dental care should be comfortable and safe. Our expert sedation dentistry services help patients of all ages receive the care they deserve without fear or discomfort.
Call us today at 858-400-4605 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how sedation dentistry can transform your dental care.
