Comfortable Care For Anxious Patients
Fear of dental visits is completely normal, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Many of our Walnut Creek patients experience dental anxiety, which is why Dr. Julia Lee offers sedation dentistry to help you feel calm, comfortable, and relaxed during your treatment.
Using FDA-approved medication, we can help you achieve a calm, relaxed state so that you can receive the dental care you need without stress or discomfort. You will remain conscious and able to respond to instructions, but you will feel deeply at ease throughout your entire procedure.
Dr. Julia Lee and her compassionate staff truly understand dental anxiety. We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain every step of your treatment, and ensure you feel safe and supported from the moment you walk through our doors.
Our Sedation Options
Oral Sedation
A prescribed medication taken before your appointment that helps you feel deeply relaxed. You will remain awake but in a calm, comfortable state throughout your procedure.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask and takes effect within minutes. It provides a pleasant, relaxed feeling and wears off quickly after treatment.
IV Sedation
For patients with severe anxiety or those undergoing extensive procedures, IV sedation delivers medication directly into the bloodstream for a deeper level of relaxation.
Who Benefits From Sedation Dentistry?
- Patients with dental anxiety or phobia
- Those requiring lengthy or complex procedures
- Patients with a strong gag reflex
- Individuals with sensitive teeth or gums
- Those who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
- Patients who need multiple treatments completed in one visit
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of sedation are available at Julia Lee D.D.S.?
We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild relaxation, oral conscious sedation (a pill taken before your appointment) for moderate anxiety, and IV sedation for deeper relaxation during complex procedures. Dr. Lee will evaluate your health history and anxiety level to recommend the most appropriate option for you.
Will I be unconscious during sedation dentistry?
Most forms of sedation used in our office allow you to remain conscious but deeply relaxed. With oral conscious sedation, you are awake but calm, drowsy, and largely unaware of the procedure. You will be able to respond to Dr. Lee if needed. Only general anesthesia renders you fully unconscious, which is reserved for specific cases.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, when administered by a trained professional. Dr. Julia Lee has advanced training in sedation techniques and carefully reviews each patient's medical history, medications, and allergies before recommending any sedation. Your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
No. If you receive oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours afterward. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) wears off quickly, so most patients can drive after a brief recovery period in our office, but we always recommend bringing a driver if possible.
How many teeth can be treated in one sedation appointment?
Sedation dentistry allows us to complete significantly more work in a single visit. Patients who previously needed multiple appointments for extensive treatment can often have everything completed in one or two longer sessions. This is ideal for patients with dental anxiety, busy schedules, or complex restorative needs.
Visit Our Friendly Office!
We look forward to welcoming you and helping you achieve the smile of your dreams.