Sedation Dentistry FAQs

Laughing gas, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is a sedation method that is inhaled through the nose to aid in relaxation during a dental procedure. The dentist is able to adjust the levels of laughing gas and oxygen to accommodate the needs of the patient. The patient remains conscious and is able to maintain natural breathing, but feels calm and relaxed. After the dental treatment, oxygen is administered and the patient is able to drive home.

Oral conscious sedation is a pill that is taken prior to a dental procedure to help accomplish an anxiety-free dental visit. It helps reduce or even eliminate common discomforts associated with certain dental treatments. While maintaining normal breathing, the patient experiences a reduced level of consciousness, which allows for relaxation, while maintaining the ability to respond to verbal stimuli. The patient will need to have transportation to and from the dental clinic as it will take time for the effects of the pill to wear off. It is not uncommon for the patient to have little to no memory of the dental procedure.

Intravenous sedation is administered into the patient’s bloodstream and works instantly providing an anxiety-free dental experience. The benefit of IV sedation is that the dentist can control the amount of sedation based on the individual needs of the patient. The patient maintains normal breathing and responds to verbal stimuli but is in a highly relaxed state. From the time the patient receives the IV sedation to the moment the procedure is done, the patient will feel as if only a few minutes have passed, and will have no memory of the dental procedure. The patient will need to have a responsible adult drive them home after the dental visit.

If you choose to have your dental procedure completed under IV sedation please adhere to the following instructions:

1. No food or beverages for 8 hours prior to your scheduled appointment. You may have water up to 4 hours prior to your scheduled appointment.

2. Please wear a short-sleeved shirt to your appointment. This will provide access to your upper arms.

3. Do not wear any makeup, contact lenses, perfume/cologne, or fragranced lotions.

4. You must have a responsible adult available to drop you off and pick you up from your appointment and to stay with you for at least 24 hours afterward.
   
   

If you arrive without a ride or have had anything to eat or drink within the required time limits your procedure will be rescheduled.

FOR YOUR SAFETY UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL YOUR PROCEDURE BE DONE IF THESE INSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT FOLLOWED