IV Sedation and Sedation Dentistry in Mission Viejo
Sedation dentistry uses medication to keep you relaxed, or asleep, during dental surgery. At our Mission Viejo office, Dr. Arthur Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, offers local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation for implants, wisdom teeth removal, extractions, and bone grafting, for patients from Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, and across Orange County.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons train in anesthesia during a hospital-based surgical residency, so your sedation is given by the same team that performs your surgery. Our surgeons are certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and you are monitored for the whole procedure.
The right level depends on the procedure, your health history, and how you feel about dental work. You choose it with Dr. Johnson at your consultation.
Your anesthesia options
Local anesthesia numbs the area being treated. You stay fully awake. It is used for every procedure, either on its own or along with sedation.
Nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas, is breathed through a small mask over the nose. It eases anxiety within a few minutes and wears off soon after the mask is removed.
IV sedation is given through a small needle in the arm. Most patients sleep through the procedure and remember little of it afterward. Because the medication takes several hours to wear off, an adult must drive you home.
Is IV sedation right for you?
IV sedation is a common choice for removing several wisdom teeth, placing implants, full arch surgery, and for patients with strong dental anxiety or a sensitive gag reflex. Dr. Johnson reviews your medical history and current medications before he recommends it, because some health conditions call for extra precautions.
Cost and insurance
The sedation fee depends on the type of sedation and how long the procedure takes. It is included in the written estimate you receive after your consultation. Our Mission Viejo office accepts many PPO dental plans and Denti-Cal. We do not accept HMO plans.
How to prepare for IV sedation
- Do not eat or drink anything, including water, for at least 8 hours before your appointment.
- Take your regular medications unless Dr. Johnson tells you otherwise, with as little water as possible.
- Wear a short-sleeved shirt and loose clothing, remove nail polish, and wear glasses instead of contact lenses.
- Bring an adult who will drive you home and stay with you after surgery.
- Do not drive or drink alcohol for 24 hours after surgery.
- If you get a cold or fever in the days before surgery, call the office. Your appointment may need to move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be asleep during IV sedation?
Most patients sleep through the procedure and wake up with little memory of it. You keep breathing on your own, and the team monitors you the entire time.
Is IV sedation safe?
IV sedation has a long track record in oral surgery when it is given by a trained team with monitoring. Dr. Johnson reviews your health history first, and our surgeons are certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
Can I drive after sedation?
Not after IV sedation. An adult must drive you home, and you should not drive or drink alcohol for 24 hours. Ask the team before your visit about driving after nitrous oxide or local anesthesia alone.
How long does IV sedation take to wear off?
You wake up soon after the procedure ends, but you may feel drowsy for the rest of the day. Plan to rest at home with someone there to help you.
Is there an oral surgeon near me who offers IV sedation?
If you live in south Orange County, yes. Our office is at 25982 Pala Ste 120, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, close to Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, and Rancho Santa Margarita. Call (949) 347-9990 to book a consultation.