University Dental Group

Sedation Dentistry

For many patients sedation can mean the difference between getting dental procedures done and neglecting their teeth due to fear and anxiety.

Inhalation sedation with nitrous oxide and oxygen or “laughing gas” is the most commonly employed technique used in conscious sedation dentistry. It is highly effective in the management of mild to moderate levels of dental anxiety. It also is an excellent technique in persons who are extreme gaggers; laughing gas usually eliminates or minimizes gagging in most patients. Laughing gas is safe for most patients and the effect wears off in just a few minutes while you’re in the dental chair. This means you can drive from your appointment and have no problem returning to work the same day.

Oral Sedation is a drug-induced state of consciousness to reduce fear and anxiety. Oftentimes sedation drugs are used in conjunction with laughing gas to achieve deep relaxation. A discussion with the doctor concerning your medical history and current medications is done to determine whether you are a candidate for oral sedation. To achieve a state of sedation the dentist gives you prescriptions for medications that you will take on your appointment day. Your ability to act and function normally returns when the effects of the sedative wear off in several hours. For oral sedation patients we require that you arrange to have a companion bring you to and from the dental office and you will need to rest until the sedatives wear off.