As a minimal form of sedation, patients breathe nitrous oxide through a mask that is placed over the nose. Otherwise known as "laughing gas," nitrous oxide "takes the edge off," helping patients relax. Our dentist adjusts the amount of sedation received, which makes this form of sedation safe and effective for children and adults. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, and adult patients may drive themselves home following treatment.
Oral sedation represents another form of sedation dentistry, and may range from minimal to moderate. To better understand, a minimal form of oral sedation is generally in pill form, and may have the same effect as Valium. Usually taken one hour prior to treatment, patients should expect to feel drowsy. If moderate sedation is needed, a larger dose is given. In this case, some patients may relax enough to sleep during treatment.
In some instances, we provide sedation through an IV. As a form of moderate sedation, IV Sedation Dentistry is often referred to as "conscious sedation." Patients are not asleep, and can respond to verbal commands or touch. Yet, patients find that they have little or no memory of the procedure afterward.
