Sedation dentistry is the practice of using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are several different types of sedation, but the most common is nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

There are three different types of sedation dentistry:

• Oral Sedation Dentistry

Oral sedation dentistry involves taking an oral sedative pill about an hour before the dental visit. Patients remain awake during oral sedation. They will not experience any pain or discomfort during their dental visit. Oral sedation dentistry is ideal for individuals who are anxious about their dental visit or are undergoing longer dental procedures.

• Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a very safe sedation method. Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and delivered to the patient through a small mask that fits over your nose. The patient remains conscious throughout the procedure and can breathe normally. Nitrous oxide has few side effects, and the patient is able to drive home after the appointment. A patient usually receives 50% oxygen and 50% nitrous oxide, and the effects of nitrous oxide wear off almost immediately after the patient stops breathing in the gas.

• IV Sedation

IV sedation, or “conscious sedation,” is a highly effective method of managing pain and anxiety during dental treatment. Intravenous conscious sedation is administered through an IV in your arm, which means the effects are immediate, and the level of sedation can be regulated. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other forms of sedation, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or other types of oral medication.

Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Dentistry can help patients of all ages feel calmer during their dental visits, whether they are undergoing simple teeth cleaning procedure or a complex oral surgery. You can rest easy knowing that our sedation dentistry techniques can help our patients of all ages feel calmer during their dental visits. Those who are afraid of needles, those with a sensitive gag reflex, or those who can sit still for a long time can benefit from sedation. Sedation dentistry is also ideal for patients who have extensive dental needs, such as a full mouth reconstruction. Sedation dentistry allows your dentist to complete multiple procedures in one appointment.

At Greenwell Springs Family Dentistry, we offer high-quality dental care using state-of-the-art dental technologies. To learn more about our dental services, call Greenwell Springs Dentist at (225) 261-0043 or visit our dental office located at 14127 Greenwell Springs Road, Greenwell Springs.