A visit to the dentist can be the source of anxiety for many people. In fact, it is common for individuals to experience some apprehension in this situation. Sometimes the level of anxiety makes it difficult for a patient to be comfortable in the dental chair. Sedation can be used to calm the patient so he or she can relax during dental procedures. At SIMA Dental, we offer two types of sedation, nitrous oxide or oral sedation.
Oral Sedation
This form of sedation is administered by way of a pill that is taken a few minutes prior to the dental procedure. Once the sedation begins to work, you will feel calm and relaxed. Some people feel slightly drowsy. Oral sedation does not leave you unconscious. You still have awareness. It is important to have someone available to drive you home after your appointment, because the effects may last for up to eight hours, depending on which type of sedation medicine is administered and how your body reacts to it
Nitrous Oxide
Also known more commonly as laughing gas, nitrous oxide has been used for over a century as a sedative to calm patients. The patient breathes in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen and begins to relax. This sedation method does not cause a loss of consciousness; it merely produces an enjoyable relaxed feeling. When the dental procedure is completed, the patient is given oxygen to clear the system of the nitrous oxide. There are no after effects from this type of sedation.
This form of sedation is administered by way of a pill that is taken a few minutes prior to the dental procedure. Once the sedation begins to work, you will feel calm and relaxed. Some people feel slightly drowsy. Oral sedation does not leave you unconscious. You still have awareness. It is important to have someone available to drive you home after your appointment, because the effects may last for up to eight hours, depending on which type of sedation medicine is administered and how your body reacts to it