Sedation dentistry

Getting a healthy and happy smile from optimizing dental care has never been easier, thanks to Dental Solutions of Encinitas. We always aim to exceed your expectations—for example, by providing a tranquil dental experience with our sedation dentistry selection.


You will never have to compromise on comfort at our office. By pairing sedation dentistry with your treatment plan, you can feel at ease as your mind and body are relaxed for the most pleasant dental experience possible. Discover the difference a soothing approach to dentistry can make and call today for your consultation.

nervous looking woman sitting in chair

A Solution to Dental Anxiety and Much More

Our office in San Diego County has turned oral care into an art form. This is due in large part to our empathetic approach to every aspect of treatment, including dental anxiety.

Feeling anxious or increased stress towards dental treatment is very common. Nearly 30% of patients will experience some level of dental anxiety in their lives. As we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care, it was only natural for our office to utilize sedation dentistry that addresses dental anxiety and other comfort concerns.

Sedation Dentistry and Dental Anxiety

There are varying levels of dental anxiety—some patients may feel a distinct discomfort while seated in a dental chair, while others may experience a genuine phobia that makes it nearly impossible to even enter a dental office.

No matter where you may fall on this spectrum, we can provide a sedation dentistry solution. You or a loved one may be interested in this service if any of the following apply:

  • You intentionally avoid dental visits due to feelings of panic or unease.
  • You have a physical response to dentists or dental treatment, which may include excessive sweating, an increased heart rate, nausea, or even feeling faint.
  • You experience an emotional change regarding dental offices; feeling jittery, more aggressive, or even having the urge to cry is common for many with dental anxiety.
  • You have social anxiety, so interacting with people or being in spaces with people gives you anxiety.

We understand that dental anxiety solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all. You can call or message our dental office to give us specific instructions on how we can make your visit more relaxing and stress-free, and on what triggers your anxiety.

Other Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Even if you don’t suffer from dental anxiety, there are other benefits to sedation dentistry that may improve the quality of certain procedures. Contact our office to learn how sedation dentistry can better your dental experience if you have:

  • Difficulty staying seated for extended periods of time
  • An extremely sensitive gag reflex
  • Trouble sitting still, including tremors, tics, Parkinson’s disease, etc.

How Our Sedation Services are Administered

At our office, we have 2 distinct methods of administering sedation, each with its own advantages. The following is a brief description of these services, and we would be happy to discuss the benefits in further detail during a consultation specific to your needs and goals.

Inhalation Sedation/Nitrous oxide

Better known by the nickname “laughing gas,” this method of sedation is simple and effective. Using a specialized mask, you will breathe in carefully monitored doses of nitrous oxide. This gives your dentist the ability to adjust levels of sedation during treatment, allowing you to experience optimal levels of comfort at all times. 

One of the most appealing advantages of inhalation sedation is how quickly it takes effect and leaves your system. With this method, you will be able to drive yourself to our office and back home without issue.

Oral Conscious Sedation

This method is ideal for patients who suffer from intense dental anxiety or phobias. You will be prescribed medication in pill form along with instructions on when to take it. While you will still be conscious during treatment, you will experience a calming, trance-like state for maximum comfort.

Feeling sleepy or groggy during and after treatment is very common. To ensure your safety, you will need to arrange for a ride to and from your appointment.

What Sedation Option Is Right for You?

Choosing the right sedation method depends on your anxiety level, the procedure, and your medical background. We offer several options, which can make it hard to determine what you want before meeting with us, but don’t worry.

During your consultation, we’ll discuss your fears, medical history, and treatment plan to recommend the safest, most effective sedation for you.

What a Visit Looks Like with Sedation Dentistry

Here’s how general sedation is administered at our office:

  • Pre-Treatment Consultation | Before your appointment, we evaluate your medical history, anxiety level, and treatment needs to determine the safest and most effective sedation option.
  • Administration | Sedation is usually given through an oral medication (pill) or inhaled nitrous oxide (laughing gas). The effects begin quickly, helping you feel calm and comfortable.
  • Monitoring | Throughout your procedure, our team closely monitors your vital signs and sedation level to ensure your safety and comfort.
  • Recovery | After treatment, you’ll spend time resting in our recovery area until the sedation wears off, or if you are using oral conscious sedation, you can leave with your designated driver.

General sedation allows us to perform complex procedures with minimal discomfort or anxiety, making it an excellent choice for nervous patients, those with a strong gag reflex, or anyone undergoing lengthy treatments.

If you think sedation dentistry could help you, call and schedule a consultation with our dental team today.

What Our Patients Say About Sedation Dentistry

We take great pride in helping patients overcome their fears and experience dental care without stress. Here’s what some of our patients have shared about their sedation experiences.

Testimonials

Our goal is to help you feel comfortable and confident during every visit, no matter your dental needs.

Your Sedation Dentistry Questions Answered

We understand that the idea of sedation can bring up a lot of questions and even some nervous feelings. Your comfort, safety, and peace of mind are our top priorities, which is why we take the time to explain each option in detail.

Whether you’re curious about how sedation works, what you’ll feel during your visit, or what recovery is like, we’re here to provide clear, honest answers every step of the way. Our goal is to help you feel informed, confident, and completely at ease, so you can focus on achieving a healthy smile without the stress or worry.

Is sedation safe?

Yes. Our sedation techniques are safe when administered by trained professionals who monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure.

Will I be unconscious?

No, you will not be fully unconscious. The type of general sedation we use in our office is called conscious sedation. This means you’ll remain awake and able to respond to verbal cues and gentle touch, but you’ll feel deeply relaxed and at ease throughout the procedure. Many patients describe it as feeling dreamlike, with little to no memory of the treatment afterward.

You’ll still maintain control of your breathing and basic reflexes, and because you’re not completely “out,” the recovery is typically smoother and faster than with full general anesthesia. This approach allows us to keep you comfortable while ensuring your safety at all times.

How long does sedation last?

The duration depends on the type of sedation and procedure length. After treatment, you’ll need time to recover before going home.

Can anyone get sedation?

Most patients qualify, but we evaluate your medical history to ensure it’s safe for you. Certain conditions may require special considerations.

Will sedation eliminate all pain?

Sedation helps with anxiety and discomfort, but local anesthesia is used alongside sedation to numb the treatment area and prevent pain.

A Soothing Dental Experience is a Call Away

Here at Dental Solutions of Encinitas, your comfort is just as much a priority as the healthy and happy smiles we provide. With our sedation dentistry services, you can enjoy a dental experience that calms the mind and soothes the body so you can focus on getting the oral care you deserve.

Contact our office today to schedule your sedation dentistry consultation.

Schedule my visit