Sedation Dentistry

Many people suffer from anxiety when going to the dentist. If you are a patient who avoids the dentist due to this fear, sedation dentistry might be for you. We offer oral conscious sedation for patients undergoing extensive dental procedures as well as nitrous oxide, aka laughing gas. Your oral health is important and should not be neglected due to fear or anxiety. Dr. Mark Harris and his team specialize in sedation dentistry and keeping their patients relaxed and comfortable even with their own parking spot.

what is sedation dentistry

Sedation is used to create a relaxed and calm state through the use of sedatives. When administered by a qualified, certified medical professional, sedation is very safe. Heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, breathing and alertness are closely monitored throughout the procedure.

benefits of sedation dentistry

  •  Feels like the procedure is only a few minutes long
  •  Easier to go through with a procedure
  • Less likely to skip routine care
  • Reduces gag reflex
  • Pain free

what to expect with sedation dentistry

While under sedation you are completely awake, however the sedatives will make you feel in a dream like state. You will feel no pain or fear. The procedure will feel like it was only a few minutes when it could have taken a few hours.

Oral Conscious Sedation VS Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Oral Conscious Sedation

Pros

  • Effects wear off very quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home after the procedure.
  • Works almost immediately, with no waiting period for the sedative to take effect.
  • You remain conscious and able to respond to the dentist’s instructions.
  • Excellent for mild to moderate anxiety, providing a calming effect.

Cons

  • Not effective enough for severe dental anxiety or very extensive procedures.
  • Some patients may experience mild side effects like nausea or dizziness.
  • Effects are temporary, offering no lingering anti-anxiety benefits after the procedure.
  • Requires breathing through a mask, which some patients might find uncomfortable.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Pros

  • Provides a deeper level of relaxation, suitable for more anxious patients or longer procedures.
  • Administered orally, making it easy and non-invasive to take.
  • Patients often have little to no memory of the dental procedure.
  • More powerful than nitrous oxide for anxiety reduction.

Cons

    • Requires someone to drive you to and from the appointment.
    • Effects last longer, meaning a recovery period with potential grogginess.
    • Not suitable for patients with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications.
    • Dosage can be less precise compared to IV sedation, leading to varied levels of sedation.