PATIENT INFO

Sedation Dentistry

We understand that going to the dentist may not be anyone's favorite activity.  Dental fear or anxiety is very real.   For those patients who want comfortable and stress-free visits, we offer sedation dentistry.   

Sedation dentistry helps to establish a relaxed and calm state.  Our office offers 3 methods to help anxious patients relax.  These are Nitrous Oxide, Oral Conscious Sedation and IV Sedation.

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas that has been the the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe and effective for minor anxiety.  The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.  The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.

Advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

  • There is no after effect such as a "hangover"and you can drive home.
  • Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
  • Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.

Oral Consious Sedation

Oral sedation dentistry is now the most common technique used in the United States and Canada to quell patients' fears.  The night before your appointment you take a pill to help you sleep and relax. An hour before your appointment, you will take a second pill.

This technique uses safe oral medications that  will help you relax while receiving dental treatment.  Nitrous Oxide may also be used in conjunction with these medications.

You will be conscious and able to talk and breathe on your own. However, you will be less aware of your surroundings and the passage of time. Using dental sedation will decrease the number of dental visits necessary to complete treatment. A responsible caregiver will need to drive you to and from the office.

Intravenous Conscious Sedation (Sleep Dentistry)

An alternative to the above techniques, IV Sedation is more profound. Utilizing a team approach, a licensed anesthetist will deliver sedation to patients with more severe anxiety.