Sedation dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and anxiety free experience for certain people receiving dental treatment. It enables individuals too afraid to go to the dentist to receive the dental care they need while avoiding the common apprehension known as dental phobia.

Sedation is different from local anesthetic  injections. This local anesthetic will temporarily block pain impulses from the affected teeth and gum tissue. This injection will occur after you are already sedated and comfortable.

One of the major benefits of sedation dentistry is the feeling the dental procedure lasts only a few minutes, when in fact it might have taken hours to perform.

Types Of Sedation

Nitrous Oxide ( Laughing Gas)

  • This type of sedation is considered a light form of dental sedation. It is a gas that is administered through a mask that is placed over your nose. The gas is inhaled through the nose and expelled through the mouth. When the procedure is over, the nitrous oxide wears off almost immediately and you return to a normal state of consciousness.

Oral Sedation

  • Oral medication is in the form of a pill that is taken an hour before the procedure.  Although you will be able to respond to your doctor’s commands, you will be in a very relaxed sleepy condition. These medications create such a comfortable experience that most patients do not remember the visit. In reality, oral sedation maintains a level of consciousness in the patient for safety and cooperation.
In regards to oral sedation, you will need a driver to accompany you to the procedure and drive you home after the procedure is completed.