Sedation Dentistry in Calabasas
Sedation dentistry is not only for people who are terrified of the dentist. For many of our patients, it's simply the most comfortable way to get needed care done, whether that means a routine cleaning they've put off for years or a longer procedure like wisdom teeth removal or dental implants. At 805 Dentistry, we offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, with a board-certified dental anesthesiologist on our team. Patients from Calabasas visit our Thousand Oaks office when they want calm, well-supervised care without being sent elsewhere for different parts of their treatment.
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax during dental treatment. Depending on the option, you may feel lightly calm, deeply relaxed, or drowsy enough that you remember little of the visit afterward. Sedation does not replace local anesthetic, which numbs the treatment area. Instead, sedation addresses the anxiety, tension, and discomfort of sitting through the appointment itself.
Patients come to us for sedation for many reasons. Some have had a difficult experience in the past and feel their heart race at the thought of a dental chair. Others are planning extensive work, such as All-on-4 implants, full mouth rehabilitation, or surgical extractions, and would rather complete more in fewer visits. Some simply find it hard to stay comfortable for long periods. Each of these is a valid reason to ask about sedation.
Nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas, is the lightest option. You breathe it through a small mask over your nose, and it creates a relaxed, easygoing feeling while you remain awake and able to respond. It suits patients with mild nerves or those who want a little extra ease during cleanings, fillings, or other shorter appointments.
Oral sedation involves taking prescribed medication by mouth before your visit. It produces a deeper level of relaxation than nitrous oxide. Many patients feel drowsy and remember only parts of the appointment. This option often works well for moderate anxiety or for longer restorative visits. IV sedation is delivered through a vein, which lets our team adjust your level of sedation throughout the procedure. It is often a good fit for significant anxiety and for more involved procedures such as oral surgery, bone grafting, or implant placement. We also offer general anesthesia for situations where it's appropriate.
Am I a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Many adults are good candidates, and the best way to know is to talk with us during a consultation. We review your health history, current medications, and the treatment you need, then recommend the level of sedation that fits both your comfort and your safety.
We'll also ask about your past dental experiences and what concerns you most. A Calabasas patient who feels uneasy about the sound of instruments may do well with nitrous oxide. Someone facing several hours of implant work may be better served by IV sedation. We explain the reasons behind our recommendation so you can make an informed decision.
What should I expect before, during, and after my appointment?
You can expect clear instructions at every stage, so nothing catches you off guard. Before your visit, we'll explain any preparation your sedation requires, such as guidelines about eating or arranging a ride home.
Here's a general outline of the experience:
- Before: We review your health history and confirm your plan, and you follow any instructions we provide.
- During: Our team monitors you throughout treatment and adjusts your comfort as needed.
- After: With nitrous oxide, many patients return to their normal routine soon after. With oral or IV sedation, a trusted adult should drive you home and stay with you while the effects wear off.
Plan to rest for the remainder of the day after oral or IV sedation. We'll send you home with aftercare guidance specific to both your sedation and your procedure. If you have questions once you're home, you can call our office.
How do I pay for sedation dentistry?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, welcome self-pay patients, and offer financing. Coverage for sedation varies by plan and procedure, so our team can help you understand what your benefits may include before treatment begins.
Financing can make it easier to move forward with larger treatment plans, especially when sedation lets you combine work into fewer appointments. Because we handle general, cosmetic, and specialty care under one roof, families in Calabasas can coordinate cleanings, restorations, and more advanced procedures with a team that already knows their history. If you've been putting off dental care because of anxiety, we'd be glad to talk through your options and help you find a level of comfort that works for you.