What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, is a popular choice for those who experience anxiety or discomfort during dental visits. There are four main types of dental sedation, each providing a different level of relaxation. During your first consultation, our team will carefully assess which sedation dentistry approach will make you most comfortable.

IV Unconscious Sedation

IV unconscious sedation typically involves a combination of intravenous drugs. Unlike simple sleep, unconscious sedation prevents the brain from responding to pain signals or reflexes. This method allows us to target a specific sensation, for example a gag-reflex can be targeted with particular combination of drugs. A highly specialized dental anesthesiologist or medical anesthesiologist administers this sedation in a carefully controlled environment. After the procedure, patients must be accompanied home by an adult.

IV Conscious Sedation

IV conscious sedation is a powerful and effective technique offered in general dental practices. It involves the introduction of intravenous drugs into the bloodstream to help patients relax and remain calm during their dental appointments. While this method helps patients feel deeply relaxed, it does not provide pain relief or directly address a gag reflex. However, it allows patients to tolerate dental procedures that might otherwise be too stressful. Because of the deep relaxation, many patients do fall asleep during their appointments.

It is important to note that IV conscious sedation does not provide pain relief; local anesthetics are still required to manage pain during the procedure. Additionally, patients may experience complete or partial memory loss of the period immediately after the sedation takes effect until the end of the appointment.

Patients undergoing IV sedation are required to have a travel companion to ensure they get home safely. Dentists offering IV sedation must undergo rigorous training to become certified, and their practice is closely regulated to ensure patient care remains the primary focus. A medical anesthesiologist may also be available to administer this type of sedation.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is an excellent option for patients who experience mild anxiety during dental visits. Typically, a single prescription sedative is taken about 30 minutes before the appointment. While this method provides relaxation, patients will need a companion to ensure safe travel to and from the office.

Laughing Gas Sedation

Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is a light sedative that induces a euphoric feeling during dental treatment. This method can also act as a pain reliever for soft tissues, making it particularly effective for periodontal treatments. Unlike oral sedation, the effects of laughing gas can be adjusted during the appointment, and it does not involve injections. Furthermore, there are no lingering effects, so patients can drive home minutes after their appointment. However, laughing gas may not be effective for everyone, as some patients may not achieve the necessary level of comfort.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used for patients who require complete unconsciousness during dental procedures. This method involves the use of inhaled gases, which put the patient into a deep sleep. Under general anesthesia, the brain does not respond to pain signals or reflexes, ensuring that the patient remains entirely unaware of the procedure. This type of anesthesia is ideal for patients with severe anxiety, those undergoing extensive dental work, or individuals with special needs that make other forms of sedation less effective.

Administered by a trained anesthesiologist in a controlled environment, general anesthesia provides a high level of safety and effectiveness. Patients are closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure their well-being. After the procedure, it is essential for patients to have a responsible adult accompany them home, as the effects of general anesthesia take time to wear off.