Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation helps you relax during dental procedures while keeping you awake and responsive. We provide two options for conscious sedation: Nitrous Oxide Sedation and Oral Sedation.
Don’t let dental anxiety stop you from taking care of your teeth. Ask us if you qualify for conscious sedation. We are committed to making your visit as comfortable as possible to support your dental health!
If you feel fear, apprehension, or embarrassment when sitting in the dental chair, you’re not alone. Many patients experience moderate to severe anxiety about their dental appointments.
At Lily Lake Dental, we are dedicated to ensuring your comfort and alleviating your concerns, so you can receive the treatment you need without any stress.
What Is A Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
At our practice, we prioritize the comfort of our anxious patients by offering nitrous oxide sedation, also known as “laughing gas.”
This method is a safe and effective solution for managing dental anxiety, with minimal side effects.
Nitrous oxide is designed to help you relax without putting you to sleep. You’ll stay awake and be able to respond to the dentist’s
questions. Patients who receive nitrous oxide typically report feelings of comfort and well-being. You might also experience mild sensations
of sleepiness, lightheadedness, or a gentle tingling in different parts of your body.
Who can receive Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
While nitrous oxide sedation is generally safe, it can cause side effects in some patients. A few individuals might experience nausea or headaches. To minimize the risk of nausea, it’s advisable to avoid eating for a couple of hours before your procedure. If you start feeling nauseous, dizzy, or uncomfortable during the treatment, inform the dentist immediately so they can adjust the gas to a more comfortable level. Overall, negative side effects from nitrous oxide sedation are rare and usually mild.
However, nitrous oxide sedation may not be suitable for everyone. Women in the first trimester of pregnancy and individuals with COPD or emphysema should avoid it. On the other hand, children can safely receive nitrous oxide for their dental treatments.
Overview of Nitrous Oxide Sedation
If you choose nitrous oxide sedation, your dentist will place a small mask over your nose that delivers a steady flow of gas. You simply breathe as you normally would.
Initially, the mask supplies 100% oxygen, and then the nitrous oxide is gradually introduced. You’ll begin to feel the calming effects almost immediately.
During your procedure, the dentist can adjust the gas levels to ensure you’re receiving the appropriate amount. Our team will monitor you throughout the process to ensure you remain safe and comfortable.
After the procedure, once the gas is turned off, the effects will quickly wear off, typically within a few minutes.
Once you feel back to normal, you will be able to drive yourself home.
What Is Oral Sedation?
For patients who feel anxious about dental treatment, oral sedation can be an effective option. This involves taking an anti-anxiety pill about an hour before your appointment begins. It is particularly beneficial if you need extensive work done or haven’t visited a dentist in a while.
Oral sedation won’t put you to sleep but will help you relax while the dentist works on your teeth. You’ll remain awake and able to respond to any questions from the dentist. Patients often report feeling drowsy, carefree, and generally relaxed.
The medications used for oral sedation are benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. These medications are very effective in helping patients who experience dental fear feel more comfortable during their visit.
Who Can Receive Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation is generally safe, but there are certain groups of people who should avoid it:
- Pregnant or Nursing Women: Oral sedation is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.
- Patients with Heart, Lung, or Liver Diseases: If you have any of these conditions, you should consult with your dentist or primary care doctor before undergoing oral sedation.
Oral sedation can also be used for anxious or fearful children. Besides reducing discomfort, sedation can help children develop a positive attitude towards dental care. Children who receive oral sedation should be monitored for the rest of the day and should avoid physical activities such as sports.
Oral Sedation Overview
- When opting for oral sedation, it is important to be aware that benzodiazepines can interact negatively with other medications. Inform us about any prescriptions, over-the-counter products, or dietary supplements you are taking. Additionally, avoid consuming alcohol before and after your appointment, as the combined sedative effects can be very dangerous.
- To ensure the medication’s effectiveness and to avoid nausea, refrain from eating or drinking any non-clear liquids for at least six hours before your appointment.
- Oral sedation may cause you to have little memory of your procedure, which many patients find beneficial. Our team will monitor your sedation level and vital signs to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the process.
- After your treatment, you will not be able to drive yourself home, as benzodiazepines can impair your judgment and coordination similar to alcohol. Arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment. It is normal to feel groggy and tired as the medication wears off.
- Refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after receiving oral sedation.