Sleep Dentistry in Rancho Bernardo
What Is Sleep Dentistry?
Who Can Benefit from Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep dentistry is a great option for patients who:
- Experience dental anxiety or fear
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Need multiple procedures completed in one visit
- Have sensitive teeth or difficulty getting numb
- Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
- Struggle to sit still for extended periods
No matter how long it’s been since your last visit or how nervous you feel, Dr. Michael Payor and Dr. Diana Cluff-Payor will meet you where you are without judgment.
Our Options
At Plaza Dentistry, we offer oral conscious sedation, which involves taking a prescribed pill before your appointment. You’ll arrive at our office already feeling calm and drowsy, and the effects deepen once you’re settled in the chair. You remain conscious and able to communicate, but most patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterward. Because the sedative takes longer to wear off, you’ll need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home. The two medications we may prescribe include:
- Valium (diazepam): A mild sedative that reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of calm without heavy sedation, making it a good fit for patients with moderate dental fears.
- Halcion (triazolam): A stronger option that produces deeper relaxation and is often preferred for longer procedures or patients with more significant anxiety.
Valium is the more gentle option, while halcion usually causes amnesia, which is a plus for patients who don’t want to remember the procedure.
These solutions are tailored to your comfort level and the nature of your treatment. During your consultation, we’ll review your health history, discuss your concerns, and recommend the choice that’s right for you. Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities.
A Stress-Free Experience Starts Here
Avoiding the dentist due to anxiety can lead to bigger problems down the road. Seeing a gentle and experienced sleep dentist makes it possible to get the care you need, whether that’s a routine cleaning, a filling, or a more involved procedure, without the dread. Our team is experienced in caring for anxious patients who want to remain asleep during dental work and will go above and beyond to make sure you feel heard, safe, and supported every step of the way.
Ready to finally look forward to your dental visits? Call our Rancho Bernardo office at 858-485-8380 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about our options for dentistry while sleeping at Plaza Dentistry.