• A fear or anxiety of being at the dentist
• A hard time sitting still for long periods of time
• A hard time getting (and staying) numb from anesthetics

• Having difficulty getting numb
• Being too young to cooperate
• Suffering from tremor related illness
• Requiring extensive treatment needs
• Having an unmanageable gag reflex
• Feeling anxious to receive the necessary dental treatment.

We understand these circumstances and will carefully choose the right sedation service and method of administration for each patient.

• Helps reduce dental anxiety and fear
• Supports comfort during longer or complex procedures
• May reduce awareness of sounds, smells, and sensations
• Helps patients with difficulty getting numb
• Can make treatment feel shorter
• May allow more dentistry to be completed in fewer visits
• Supports care for patients with strong gag reflexes or special comfort needs

Mild Sedation

The patient is at ease and aware of surroundings during mild sedation, while in a more relaxed state of consciousness. The patient will still have the ability to respond to verbal commands and stimulation. Incremental dosing to reach the recommended dose is common, as patients differ in their needs and requirements for a treatment.

Moderate Sedation

Moderate sedation is categorized as a deeper state of relaxation, with responsiveness to light stimulation. Patients may feel drowsy and may sleep during the procedure. Our anesthesiologist assures safety during the needed level of unconsciousness.

Deep Sedation

During deep sedation, the patient is in a deeper sleep to avoid anxiety and discomfort. The patient will be breathing independently, with supplemental oxygen given in most instances. This type of monitored care is highly effective and allows the dentist to provide full dental care in complete comfort for every individual, regardless of previous dental experiences.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is a controlled state of unconsciousness where a patient cannot see or hear anything during a procedure. The medication can be administered through various routes, and can be done in both, a hospital operating room and the dental office. It is an extension of deep sedation, helping limit movement and discomfort during dental treatment. A highly trained and specialized dental anesthesiologist is required to provide this type of anesthesia to assure an absolute patient’s safety throughout the procedure.

The duration of the recovery phase after General Anesthesia depends on several factors related to the drugs used and the individual patient’s body response to them, age and general health. When the procedure has ended, the patient is usually transferred to the recovery room, until consciousness is regained, and the vital functions return to normal levels. Recovery of consciousness occurs usually within 30 minutes depending upon the duration of surgery. During the recovery period you will receive a follow-up from your doctor and written instructions.

Patients receiving deeper sedation or general anesthesia should arrange transportation and follow all food, drink, medication, and activity instructions provided before and after treatment.

• Comfortable dental care for anxious patients
• Multiple levels of sedation available
• Highly trained dental anesthesiologist
• Careful preoperative evaluation
• Patient-centered treatment planning
• Convenient downtown San Francisco location