Beverly Wilshire Dental Group · Beverly Hills & Northridge
Sedation Dentistry in Beverly Hills and Northridge
Receive comfortable, stress-free dental care with sedation dentistry at Beverly Wilshire Dental Group. Dr. Ebrahimi offers safe sedation options for patients who experience dental anxiety or require extensive treatment in a single visit.
Request a ConsultationDental anxiety is more common than most people realize. Many patients put off necessary care for months or even years because of fear, discomfort, or a previous negative experience. At Beverly Wilshire Dental Group in Beverly Hills and Northridge, CA, Dr. Mehryar Ebrahimi offers sedation options that allow patients to receive the care they need in a calm, relaxed state — without fear getting in the way of a healthy smile.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is not only for patients with severe dental phobia. It is a practical option for a wide range of situations:
- Dental anxiety or fear of the dentist
- Sensitive gag reflex that makes treatment difficult
- Difficulty getting numb from local anesthesia alone
- Extensive treatment that would otherwise require multiple appointments
- Patients who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
- Low pain tolerance or heightened sensitivity
- Patients with special needs who have difficulty sitting still for extended periods
- Anyone who simply wants a more comfortable, relaxed dental experience
Sedation Options at Beverly Wilshire Dental Group
Dr. Ebrahimi will discuss the most appropriate sedation option for your needs, health history, and the type of treatment being performed.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
The mildest and most commonly used form of dental sedation. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose and produces a pleasant, relaxed feeling within minutes. You remain fully conscious and able to respond to Dr. Ebrahimi throughout the procedure. The effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed, allowing most patients to drive themselves home.
Oral Conscious Sedation
A prescription sedative medication taken by mouth before your appointment. Oral sedation produces a deeper state of relaxation than nitrous oxide. You will remain conscious but may feel drowsy and have little memory of the procedure afterward. A responsible adult must drive you to and from your appointment.
Local Anesthesia
Used in combination with other sedation methods or alone for patients with mild anxiety. Local anesthesia numbs the specific area being treated so you feel no pain during the procedure. Dr. Ebrahimi uses a careful, gentle technique to make injections as comfortable as possible.
IV Sedation
Administered directly into the bloodstream for a deeper level of sedation. IV sedation allows Dr. Ebrahimi to precisely control the level of sedation throughout the procedure and adjust as needed. It is typically reserved for more complex cases or patients with significant anxiety. A responsible adult must accompany you.
Procedures Commonly Performed with Sedation
Sedation can be used alongside virtually any dental procedure. It is particularly common for:
- Dental implant placement
- Root canal treatment
- Tooth extractions
- Extensive cosmetic dentistry or smile makeovers
- Multiple procedures completed in a single visit
- Periodontal therapy for gum disease
- Crown preparation and placement
Combining sedation with restorative or cosmetic treatment can significantly reduce the total number of appointments needed, which many patients find a major advantage.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
When administered by a trained dental professional, sedation dentistry is very safe. Dr. Ebrahimi reviews your full medical history, current medications, and health status before recommending any sedation option. Your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort at all times.
It is important to disclose all medications, supplements, and health conditions during your consultation so that Dr. Ebrahimi can recommend the safest and most appropriate sedation method for you.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Appointment
Before Your Appointment
Depending on the type of sedation used, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a period of time beforehand. If you are receiving oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the office. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and leave valuables at home.
During Your Appointment
Dr. Ebrahimi and the team will make sure you are comfortable before beginning any treatment. With nitrous oxide, you will feel relaxed within minutes. With oral or IV sedation, the effects will already be taking hold from before you arrive. Most patients report little to no memory of the procedure itself.
After Your Appointment
Recovery time depends on the type of sedation used. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly and most patients feel normal within 15 to 30 minutes. Oral conscious sedation and IV sedation require more recovery time — plan to rest for the remainder of the day and avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions for at least 24 hours.
Sedation Dentistry Cost in Beverly Hills and Northridge
The cost of sedation varies depending on the type used and the length of your appointment. Nitrous oxide is generally the most affordable option. Oral conscious sedation and IV sedation involve additional preparation and monitoring and are priced accordingly.
Some dental insurance plans include partial coverage for sedation when it is medically necessary. Our team will help you understand your benefits and discuss financing options for any remaining balance. Contact our Beverly Hills or Northridge office for a detailed estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Will I be unconscious during sedation dentistry?
With nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, you remain awake but deeply relaxed. You will be able to respond to Dr. Ebrahimi if needed. IV sedation produces a deeper state of relaxation and you may have little or no memory of the procedure, but you are not fully unconscious as you would be under general anesthesia.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
After nitrous oxide, most patients can drive themselves home once the gas has been cleared — typically 15 to 30 minutes after the mask is removed. After oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, you must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for the remainder of the day.
Is sedation dentistry safe for everyone?
Most healthy adults are good candidates for some form of sedation. Dr. Ebrahimi will review your medical history and current medications before recommending a sedation option. Certain health conditions or medications may affect which options are appropriate for you.
Will I feel any pain during the procedure?
Sedation is used in combination with local anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during treatment. Sedation relieves anxiety and produces relaxation, while local anesthesia prevents pain signals from reaching the brain.
How do I know which type of sedation is right for me?
Dr. Ebrahimi will discuss your level of anxiety, the procedure being performed, your health history, and your preferences during your consultation. Together you will choose the option that best fits your needs.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
Coverage varies. Some plans include partial coverage for sedation when it is considered medically necessary. Our team can help you review your benefits before your appointment.
Schedule Your Sedation Dentistry Consultation
You should never have to avoid the dentist because of fear or anxiety. Dr. Ebrahimi and the team at Beverly Wilshire Dental Group are here to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Contact us today at either of our convenient locations.
Book an AppointmentBeverly Hills
300 S. Beverly Dr., Suite 411
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(310) 246-9321
Northridge
8545 Reseda Blvd.
Northridge, CA 91324
(818) 885-8806