What Types of Sedation Options Are There?

Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, is utilized to improve a patient’s experience at the dentist. Whether they suffer from mild to moderate dental fear and anxiety or they’re undergoing a dental procedure, sedation dentistry can help! Keep reading to learn more about the main types of sedation dentistry and what they can do for you!

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is one of the most common forms of dental sedation. It is a sweet-smelling gas that’s administered through a face mask during the appointment. Nitrous oxide is safe for both kids and adults. It is known for putting patients into a silly, giggly state, which is how it got its nickname. Nitrous oxide is the perfect sedative for anxious patients and patients undergoing more routine dental procedures.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is a stronger sedative than nitrous oxide. It is an anti-anxiety pill prescribed to patients that they take before their appointment begins. It puts patients into a deep state of relaxation, but they remain conscious. Oral conscious sedation helps patients with more severe dental anxiety. It’s also used for those who need longer, more complex dental treatment.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is our strongest form of sedation and is used for patients undergoing oral surgery. This type of sedative puts patients into a sleep-like state and they won’t remember anything from their procedure. This level of sedation is not commonly available in a dental office but Dr. Alex Mehraban is highly trained and experienced in providing IV sedation. When patients are under IV sedation, we closely monitor their vital signs to make sure they are safe throughout their procedure.

When is Dental Sedation Recommended?

Dental sedation is recommended for patients with dental anxiety or phobia, those undergoing lengthy or complex procedures, individuals with a low pain threshold, or patients who have difficulty sitting still during dental treatments. It can also be beneficial for those with a strong gag reflex or special needs that make standard dental care challenging. By providing various levels of sedation—nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation—dentists can tailor the approach to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.

What Are the Side Effects of Dental Sedation?

Common side effects of dental sedation include drowsiness, dizziness, and a feeling of heaviness in the limbs. Patients might experience dry mouth, nausea, or headaches, particularly with oral conscious sedation and IV sedation. Memory lapses or mild amnesia about the procedure are also possible. These effects are typically temporary and subside as the sedation wears off. Should you develop a fever or experience side effects that last longer than 24 hours, please contact our office.

How Long Do the Effects of Dental Sedation Typically Last?

The duration of dental sedation effects varies depending on the type used. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, usually within minutes after the gas supply is stopped, allowing patients to resume normal activities almost immediately. Oral conscious sedation can last several hours, with residual drowsiness possibly extending into the day. IV sedation provides deeper sedation and may require several hours for the effects to diminish, often necessitating that patients rest and avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. Full recovery from all types typically occurs by the next day.

Sedation Dentistry in Canton, GA

Which type of sedation is best for me? Every patient and situation is different. Our team will be able to help you determine what level of sedation is right for you or your family member. Riverstone Dental Care is pleased to offer multiple sedation options for our patients. Questions about sedation dentistry? Contact us to learn more!

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Categorised in: Sedation Dentistry