Don't let dental anxiety stop you from going to the dentist!
Dental sedation is used to relax you prior to your dental appointment, using oral medication, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), or a combination of the two.
When we use oral sedation, either we or your physician will prescribe a short-acting relaxing medication that you can take a few hours prior to your dental appointment. For some patients, we have them take the medication the night before the appointment as well, so they can sleep comfortably.
Important: if you are taking oral sedation prior to your dental appointment, you should not drive. If we decide to use oral sedation, we will provide you with instructions.
Nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) is one of the best methods of relaxing someone during a dental appointment, because it starts to work quickly and wears off quickly. If you are treated with nitrous oxide during your appointment, you will be able to return to work and drive directly after.
Absolutely. With oral sedation and/or nitrous oxide, you will always be breathing on your own. You will be awake during the entire procedure, and you will be aware of your surroundings. Remember, these treatment methodologies only serve to relax you during treatment and lessen your anxiety.
Regardless of how much fear you have of the dentist, rest assured that we can help you, and you can have dental care without the anxiety.
