Sedation Dentistry Service in Fresno, CA
Dental anxiety is a common challenge that many people face, preventing them from getting the dental care they need. At Shahbazyan Dental Studio in Fresno, CA, we understand these fears and offer sedation dentistry as a solution. Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, uses medication to help patients relax and feel comfortable during dental procedures. This service is especially beneficial for those with dental phobia, a low pain threshold, sensitive gag reflexes, or extensive treatment needs. Our goal is to provide a stress-free and pain-free dental experience for all our patients.
What Is Sedation (Sleep) Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medications to help patients relax during dental procedures. Contrary to the term “sleep dentistry,” most forms of sedation allow the patient to remain awake and responsive, though deeply relaxed. Depending on the type and level of sedation, patients may feel drowsy, calm, and even experience partial or total amnesia about the procedure. This approach is particularly helpful for those who have significant dental anxiety, require lengthy treatments, or have difficulty sitting still for extended periods.
Don't hesitate to contact us to discuss any aspect of your dental health - we don't charge for giving advice!
What Types of Sedation Are Used in Dentistry?
At Shahbazyan Dental Studio, we offer several types of sedation to meet the varying needs of our patients:
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Overview
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose. It’s commonly known as laughing gas and is one of the most popular forms of sedation used in dentistry.
Benefits
The effects of nitrous oxide are felt quickly, providing a sense of calm and relaxation. The sedation level can be adjusted throughout the procedure, and the effects wear off rapidly, allowing you to drive home
Oral Sedation
Overview
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication, such as diazepam or a similar drug, prior to your appointment.
Benefits
Depending on the dosage, oral sedation can provide minimal to moderate sedation, helping you feel relaxed and drowsy. It’s an effective option for managing moderate anxiety and can make longer procedures more tolerable.
IV Sedation
Overview
Intravenous (IV) sedation is administered directly into your bloodstream, providing a deeper level of sedation.
Benefits
IV sedation works quickly and allows for precise control over the level of sedation. It is ideal for patients with severe dental anxiety or those undergoing extensive procedures. Patients often have little to no memory of the procedure.
General Anesthesia
Overview
General anesthesia renders you completely unconscious and is typically used for extensive dental work or complex oral surgeries.
Benefits
Administered by a qualified anesthesiologist, general anesthesia ensures that you are completely unaware of the procedure, making it suitable for patients with extreme dental phobia or special needs.
How Can Sedation Dentistry Help You?
Sedation dentistry offers numerous benefits, making it a valuable option for various patients:
- Alleviates Anxiety and Fear: Sedation helps to reduce the anxiety and fear associated with dental visits, enabling you to receive necessary treatments comfortably.
- Pain Management: Sedation minimizes discomfort and pain during dental procedures, ensuring a more pleasant experience.
- Efficiency: With sedation, dentists can perform multiple procedures in a single visit, reducing the need for multiple appointments.
- Comfort: Sedation dentistry is particularly helpful for patients with a low pain threshold, sensitive gag reflexes, or special needs, providing a more manageable and comfortable dental care experience.
What is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety refers to the fear, anxiety, or stress associated with visiting the dentist. This condition affects a significant portion of the population and can lead to avoidance of dental care, which can result in poor oral health and more serious dental problems over time. Symptoms of dental anxiety can include sweating, racing heartbeat, low blood pressure, and even fainting. Understanding dental anxiety is crucial for addressing it effectively and ensuring that patients receive the care they need.
How Do I Cope with Dental Anxiety?
Coping with dental anxiety involves several strategies that can help you feel more comfortable and confident about visiting the dentist:
Communication
Discuss your fears with your dentist. At Shahbazyan Dental Studio, we are here to listen and provide reassurance.
Sedation Options
Explore sedation dentistry options. Sedation can significantly reduce anxiety and make dental visits more manageable.
Relaxation Techniques
Practice deep breathing, meditation, or other relaxation techniques before and during your appointment.
Distraction
Bring headphones to listen to music or an audiobook during your procedure.
Gradual Exposure
Start with shorter, less invasive visits to gradually build your comfort level with dental care.
Safety and Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is generally safe when administered by a trained professional. However, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects:
Common Side Effects
Nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth are common but typically mild and temporary.
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. Inform your dentist of any known allergies.
Medical Monitoring
Continuous monitoring during sedation helps manage any adverse reactions promptly.
Cost Involved in Sedation Dentistry
The cost of sedation dentistry varies depending on the type of sedation used and the length of the procedure. Generally, nitrous oxide sedation is the most affordable option, while IV sedation and general anesthesia can be more costly due to the need for specialized equipment and monitoring. At Shahbazyan Dental Studio, we provide a detailed cost estimate during your consultation and discuss any available payment plans or financing options to make sedation dentistry accessible for all patients.
Payment Options
To accommodate all our patients, we accept a variety of payment methods. This includes Cash, Checks as well as all major Debit & Credit Cards including AMEX, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. We also accept debit cards.
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Meet Our Dentist
Meet Dr. Zaruhi Shahbazyan, DDS - Implants, Smile design, Painless Family Dentistry
Fellow of International Dental Implant Association
● Awarded for Distinguished Implant Excellence
Born and raised in Armenia, Zaruhi Shahbazyan, DDS, received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree graduating with honors from Yerevan State Medical University. She and her family moved to Fresno, California, in 2001, where she passed her national and state board exams to practice dentistry in the United States.
Dentistry is not just a job to her. She is passionate about her profession and continually strives to fine tune her skills while learning new ones through continued education and hands-on training with other top doctors in the various specialties of dentistry. As a result, she has an impressive and growing list of continued studies.
Testimonials
The staff are wonderful. I feel like the hygienist is a friend . I feel comfortable when I go there . I have high anxiety when I go to a dentist and my body burns the medication to work on my teeth so I do oral sedation. Mrs Shahbazyan is the sweetest! She gives you a hug and makes you feel comfortable and explains what needs to be done. She spends the time. I was terrible about going to the dentist but now I go regularly. I highly recommend Dr Shahbazyan
Shelly Leal
I am very thankful to Dr Shahbazyan and everyone in her office. I felt seen and heard. I feel like everyone was willing to listen and help with my fears and anxiety. They showed me all of my X-rays and sent a copy home with me. I appreciate their transparency, care and patience
Jennifer Nordman
ABSOLUTELY LOVEEEEE THIS PLACE. The staffs are incredibly sweet and attentive. My dental hygienist is so kind and gentle with my cleaning. I have a serious fear of the dentist and they make my visit so comfortable. I love the extra care they’ve put in place to make the visit comfortable and appreciate them so much. Would highly recommend.
Kaitlin Lockheart
FAQs
Can any dentist perform sedation?
Most dentists are allowed to administer minimal sedation such as oral sedation or laughing gas. When general anesthesia must be used, for instance via an IV line, a specialist is required to administer this form of sedation.
How safe is sedation dentistry?
Generally speaking, sedation dentistry is extremely safe for the vast majority of all patients who require it. Sedation dentistry has been performed countless times at dental offices all throughout the country, and there have only been rare cases where a patient has reacted badly to it.
How long does dental sedation last?
In the case of nitrous oxide, the side effects from the laughing gas begin to subside almost as soon as you take the mask away from a patient. However, when oral sedation or IV sedation are used, it can be several hours before the effects wear off completely. That’s why it will be necessary to have someone drive you to and from the dental office when either oral sedation or IV sedation are being used.
DENTAL FINANCING OPTIONS AT SHAHBAZYAN DDS
Our office is in-network with all major insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible. If you do not find your insurance provider here; please call at (559) 295-8977 for clarity.
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