Dental Sedation
When is Sedation Used?
Dental sedation is used most often for patients who experience dental anxiety, or during procedures that are lengthy and complex.
For our more anxious patients, we find that just knowing they have sedation options can help them relax in the days before their appointments. And while they're with us, it allows them to face their procedure with a sense of calm that would be difficult to achieve otherwise.
Oral Sedation
With oral conscious sedation, your dentist gives you sedative medication (in pill or liquid form) about an hour before your procedure begins.
After the sedative begins to work, you will feel groggy and may even fall asleep. However, you'll still be able to communicate with your dental team if necessary. Once the procedure is finished, you'll awaken with a gentle nudge. You may only remember snippets of the experience afterwards.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide (commonly referred to as laughing gas) is used as a mild to moderate sedative to help anxious dental patients during procedures. It is inhaled through a small nose piece, and can help patients feel relaxed.
At Falls Family Dental, we use nitrous oxide on adults and children who experience dental anxiety or are undergoing a long procedure. With nitrous oxide, you will stay awake and able to respond during your procedure, but your sensitivity to pain will be dulled.
Needle-Free Dental Sedation to Help You Relax
Many patients who feel anxious about going to their dentist also have a fear of needles, which are used for IV sedation. However, with oral sedation and nitrous oxide, you can enjoy the benefits of sedation without the needle.
FAQs About Sedation
Here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental sedation at Falls Family Dental:
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What is the difference between oral sedation and nitrous oxide?
Oral conscious sedation is taken as a pill or liquid about an hour before your procedure begins. While it can make you quite groggy and you may fall asleep, you'll still be able to communicate with your dentist during the procedure. This type of sedation is generally recommended for patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety or patients undergoing long or uncomfortable procedures.
Nitrous oxide is similar in that you will be groggy but awake throughout your procedure. The biggest difference between the two is that nitrous oxide is inhaled through the nose, and the effects happen nearly instantaneously, rather than having to begin it before your appointment.
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Can I drive myself to my appointment?
No. Regardless of whether you are using oral sedatives or nitrous oxide, please arrange to have a trusted friend or family member bring you to and from your appointment. You may feel fine on your way to your appointment, but it will not be safe to drive home.
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How long does sedation take to wear off?
The effects of oral sedation can last anywhere from two to eight hours after a dental procedure. Nitrous oxide usually wears off shortly after you stop inhaling it; however, you will still feel groggy for a long time afterward. The specifics of how long it will take for sedation to wear off depend on the particular medication we used and your unique body. Your dentist can provide you with detailed instructions before your procedure.
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What does sedation feel like?
While sedation can affect each person differently, most people feel relaxed or drowsy during their procedure. Stress, anxiety and other negative feelings dissipate after sedation takes effect.
You may experience a tingling sensation in your hands, arms, legs and feet while under sedation.
