Many people experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. We understand these fears and are committed to ensuring every patient feels safe, comfortable, and at ease during their visit. For those with moderate to severe dental anxiety, medication can be a helpful and effective option to make dental care a stress-free experience.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help you relax during your dental appointment. Depending on your level of anxiety and the procedure, we offer a range of options to create a comfortable and calm experience. Our team will discuss your concerns and health history with you to determine the safest and most effective approach.
Our sedation options
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that you inhale through a small mask placed over your nose.
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that you inhale through a small mask placed over your nose.
- Feeling: It quickly creates a feeling of calm and relaxation. Some people describe a pleasant, tingling sensation.
- Consciousness: You remain fully conscious and can communicate with our team throughout the procedure.
- Recovery: The effects wear off within minutes after the mask is removed, allowing you to drive yourself home.
- Ideal for: Patients with mild anxiety or those undergoing routine, shorter procedures.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed anti-anxiety pill about an hour before your appointment.
- Feeling: The medication helps you feel drowsy and very relaxed, though you remain awake. Many patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.
- Consciousness: You will be awake but in a deeply relaxed state and can still respond to verbal cues.
- Recovery: The sedative effects last longer, so you must have a responsible adult drive you to and from your appointment.
- Ideal for: Patients with moderate dental anxiety or those undergoing longer, more complex procedures.