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Sedation Dental Procedures

Sedation dentistry is a procedure used by dentist to manage patient's pain and/or anxiety during a dental procedure. The four basic sedation techniques use laughing gas, pills, intravenous (IV) anesthesia and general anesthesia. All relax the patient so that the experience is pleasant, and their preparations are similar.

  1. Sedation Through Inhalation

    • Often referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide (N2O) is a clear, non-irritating gas that is inhaled. It kills pain, makes one lightheaded and gives the patient a feeling of euphoria. The gas relaxes within minutes and recovery happens within minutes, allowing the patient to drive home safely.

    Oral Sedation

    • Oral sedation is basically an anti-anxiety pill taken prior to the appointment. It relaxes the patient and has an amnesia affect. It does not kill pain, so a numbing injection is used in conjunction with the pills. It can leave the patient groggy or dizzy, so the patient will need someone to drive them home.

    IV Sedation

    • Intravenous (IV) sedation is when the anti anxiety drug is administered through an IV to the blood stream. It produces very deep relaxation and at least partial amnesia. It does not kill pain, so a pain killer is also administered through the IV. Side effects are similar to oral sedation, so the patient must be driven home.

    General Anesthesia

    • General anesthesia is normally a last resort option and is administered through an injection and face mask. It renders the patient unconscious, so she does not feel pain or remember the procedure. This procedure is done in a hospital setting since it requires more complex techniques.

    When Sedation Dentisty is Beneficial

    • Sedation dentistry is an excellent option for patients with phobias or general anxiety related to dental procedures or injections.

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