"Relaxing dental appointment" might sound like an oxymoron. But when dental sedation is involved it proves true.
Discomfort, dental anxiety, or the general desire to experience a relaxed and comfortable procedure make sedation a viable option.
Knowing your sedation options and being aware of how each applies to your dental procedures can help you have a positive experience at your next appointment.
Dental sedation options to consider
1-Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
This is among the mildest sedation solutions. The safe gas is gently inhaled by breathing normally through a small nose covering.
Nitrous provides a quick sedation result. You will feel relaxed while being fully awake.
The effects of nitrous sedation also wears off quickly. You will be able to depart the dental office within minutes following your appointment.
Nitrous oxide sedation is commonly used during dental procedures to provide a level of comfort and relaxation. It is also effective if you have mild to moderate anxiety associated with dental appointments.
Nitrous sedation is safe for adults and children as well.
2-Oral sedation
This pill form of sedation can be taken approximately one hour prior to your dental appointment. Oral sedation provides a deeper relaxation than you would experience with nitrous oxide.
You might feel drowsy or doze off although you will still be able to respond to any verbal cues during your appointment.
Oral sedation typically lasts longer so it's a good idea to have someone available to drive you home following your procedure.
This sedation option is recommended if you have moderate to severe anxiety about a dental appointment or if you're having a more lengthy or invasive dental procedure.
3-IV sedation
This method provides a much deeper level of sedation. It's delivered intravenously (IV) into your bloodstream.
The level of sedation can be adjusted to ensure a proper balance of comfort during your procedure. You will be deeply relaxed and likely not recall any of your procedure.
This sedation option is recommended if you have high levels of anxiety and/or if your procedure is complex and requires an extended amount of time. As with oral sedation, you will need someone to accompany you and drive you home post-appointment.
4-General anesthesia
This option is used in rare cases. It's typically recommended for major oral surgery procedures and/or if you have extreme dental anxiety.
General anesthesia places you in a fully unconscious state. It is most often used in specialist settings or hospitals.
Sedation, dental anxiety, and more
Dental sedation helps put your mind and body at ease enabling you to get the treatment you need. Having sedation options enables you to accept and follow-through on necessary treatment you might otherwise postpone, delay, or avoid.
Sedation also benefits other circumstances in addition to anxiety.
- If you have a low pain threshold
- If you need complex or multiple procedures during one appointment
- If you have medical conditions such as Parkinson's disease or autism and are unable to remain still during a procedure
Dental sedation in it's various forms enables you to maintain your oral health and experience comfortable, stress-free dental treatment.
It's important to get your questions answered about dental procedures and available sedation methods. Start a conversation with a dentist online using the convenient, accessible, and cost-effective Dental.com platform.
- Transparent oral health consultations
- Free scans
- Convenient, time-saving access to low cost, virtual dental consultations with a licensed dentist
- Connection to in-person dental care with dentists in your zip code
Get solutions for your dental issues through virtual dental care
The Dental.com team of dental professionals are trained to identify, diagnose, and treat any dental condition. From toothaches to second opinions - you’re covered!
- Access a 24 hour dentist now from your personal, private, and secure account.
- Select a reason for your visit using a brief questionnaire.
- Receive virtual dental care from a licensed dentist when you provide your issue details, any photos, and/or dental/health records.
Discover more about Dental.com on our How it Works page. Or Register Now.