Sedation Dentistry

Oral Sedation: A pill-form, low level of sedation. Commonly used for patients who fear needles or exhibit slight anxiety over getting dental work done. One pill is administered the night before the procedure to help the patient sleep comfortably, and the second is taken an hour before the procedure is to be done. The prescriptions used for oral sedation include diazepam, triazolam, lorazepam, hydroxyzine, and zaleplon. The effects of this form of sedation vary based on dosage and prescription used.

Nitrous Oxide: The level of sedation with nitrous oxide is slightly more intense than that of oral sedation. Treatment involves the placing of a mask over the patient’s nose so the patient may inhale the gas. The flow of gas can be adjusted by the dentist to achieve the correct level of sedation for the patient’s optimal comfort. The sedation wears off once the patient receives pure oxygen. The effects of nitrous oxide also leave the patients feeling lighter and carefree.

Intravenous Sedation: The most aggressive form of sedation used in instances where the patient exhibits strong anxieties about receiving dental care or requires an invasive procedure. The patient remains conscious through the procedure, however, no memory of it is kept. Patients who opt for IV sedation describe the experience as feeling as though they have slept through their entire procedure.