Sedation Dentistry

For more information download our Sedation Dentistry Brochure

What can you expect to experience while sedated?

Levels of Sedation:

Mild Sedation

Tranquil relaxation often provided by nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or a tablet of medication similar to a sleeping aid. You are conscious and aware during mild sedation, but stress is reduced.

Combined Sedation

Produces a twilight-like sleep where you are responsive to verbal direction while you “daydream.” Time feels compressed and longer appointments become easier. This type of sedation is often produced by the combination of a tablet and nitrous oxide gas.

Intravenous Sedation

A more profound, peaceful sleep-like state. Patients will be barely aware. There may be brief periods where you are in a controlled state of unconsciousness so that you are not bothered by treatments that can cause discomfort. This is an excellent, safe, and predictable form of sedation for many patients.

General Anaesthesia

An anaesthetic that allows for the deepest level of sedation. This is performed at Awake or Asleep by a l anaesthetist.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing gas)

Light sedation which will last for the entire procedure. You will be able to drive yourself home after the treatment completion

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe.

Nitrous Oxide has been the the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide.

The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.

Nitrous Oxide & Oral Medication

Produces a feeling of complete relaxation. You might be aware of your procedure but you won't feel or recall any pain. Make sure there is someone to accompany you and to drive you home.

Intravenous

For those who require a deep, sleep-like dental visit. Patients are sedated but awake and remember very little about the procedure. Make sure there is someone to accompany you and to drive you home after your appointment.

General Anaesthesia

Patients will be asleep for the duration of the treatment(s) and supervised throughout by an anaesthesiologist and registered nurse (RN), using hospital-grade equipment.

There Are Many Advantages To Using Nitrous Oxide

• The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
• There is no after effect such as a "hangover".
• Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
• Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
• It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

Reasons To Not Use Nitrous Oxide

You should not utilize Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your dentist for a "5 minute trial" to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.