Dental Sedation
What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation includes a variety of techniques that a dentist may use to:
- Calm a fearful patient before or during a dental procedure
- To make a patient more comfortable during a long procedure
3 Types of Sedation a Dentist May Use
Depending on the treatment required, your dentist may recommend a sedative. Sedation is administered in one of three ways:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is often used to help a patient relax during dental treatment (The patient is awake during treatment).
- As a pill taken orally
- IV sedation
When is Dental Sedation Used?
Sedation is often used before or during complex dental treatments, such as:
- Removing a wisdom tooth or extensive oral surgery procedures
- Dental implants
- Endodontic procedures (root canals)
- Gum surgery and bone grafting procedures
Your dentist will recommend the form of sedation that is right for you.
Both oral and intravenous (I.V.) sedation effects will linger on past the dental appointment. A friend or family member is required to accompany the patient to drive the patient to and from the appointment.
Talk with your dentist if you have concerns about dental sedation.
