Sedation dentistry provides safe, comfortable dental treatment for patients who have high anxiety about dental visit. Sometimes called relaxation or sleep dentistry, sedation dentistry is a way of managing pain and anxiety during professional dental care through the use of medications. Thousands of people every day avoid seeing the dentist because of fear and anxiety, but with sedation, dental problems can be fixed comfortably while you sleep! Ask us!
You can benefit from sedation dentistry if have or have had one or more of the following:
- High fear of dental procedures
- Complex dental problems
- Traumatic dental experiences
- Fear of needles and shots
- Difficulty getting numb
- Sensitive teeth
Common types of Sedation Dentistry
- Oral Conscious Sedation
- Through this type of sedation you will experience very deep relaxation while still being conscious. Your doctor will provide you with a prescription for an oral medication that is easy to swallow, safe, and low cost. Common oral sedation medications used are Halcion (triazolam) for adults and Versed (Midozolam) for children (in liquid form). When these take effect, you will be able to speak and respond to external requests, but may have limited or no memory of your appointment. You must have someone drive for you with this option. Ask your dental team for details.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
- Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide gas is inhaled through the nose. A comfortable state is achieved as you will feel relaxed and at ease while still awake. This is the most economical option and you can drive yourself to and from your appointment. Ask your dental team for details.
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation
- During IV sedation you will mostly sleep for your appointment. An intravenous line is placed and medications are introduced directly into the bloodstream. This is the deepest and most effective of the three options. A certified nurse anesthetist (CNA) is brought in to perform the sedation. The anesthetist and dental team will closely monitor your health while under anesthesia. You must have someone drive for you with this option. Ask your dental team for details.
