Dental anxiety and dental fear can prevent individuals from seeking necessary dental care, which can lead to more complex and painful dental problems in the long run. Ignoring oral health issues can also impact a person’s overall health and well-being. Whether you have mild anxiety, moderate anxiety or severe anxiety about dental work we can help you find the right level of dental sedation to make you comfortable.
What is laughing gas?
Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is the most frequently used method for mild sedation in dentistry and is extremely common technique to help patients relax during procedures. It is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose and takes effect within minutes, providing a feeling of euphoria and reduced anxiety. During the dental appointments you remain awake and able to communicate with the dentist. The effects of laughing gas wears off quickly after the mask is removed, making it safe for you to drive yourself home and continue normal activities immediately. It is commonly used for routine dental treatments such as cleanings, fillings, root canal and minor oral surgery.
What is Oral Conscious Sedation dentistry?
Oral conscious sedation is a form of sedation dentistry that involves taking a prescription oral medication, administered orally, to help you relax and feel more at ease during dental procedures. The medication is usually taken about an hour before the appointment and helps you feel calm and drowsy during the procedure. For moderate dental anxiety, nitrous oxide can be used at the same time to induce a moderate sedation level. You are awake and able to respond to the dentist during the dental procedure, but you may feel groggy or have little memory of the entire procedure. Oral conscious sedation is considered a moderate form of sedation, and a driver is required to take you home after the appointment
Which level of sedation should I do?
There is no right or wrong level of sedation for you. Our goal at Today’s Dentistry is to help you become more comfortable in the dental chair and to allow you to have dental treatments safely.
