What Sedation Dentistry Feels Like & How to Choose the Right One

If you’re someone who always feels nervous, anxious, or even downright terrified of completing dental appointments, you should keep reading. Dentists have introduced many options to make your dental visits easier to complete and as comfortable as possible. This includes sedation dentistry, a service that works to keep you at ease no matter what treatment you need to complete. However, if you’re wondering what sedation dentistry feels like, you should know that it really depends on which type of sedation you choose. Learn what to expect from a periodontist in Huntington Beach!

What Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation Feel Like?

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is administered through a nasal mask that is worn during treatment. After gently breathing in the sedative, you can expect to feel very relaxed and at ease while still being awake. This will allow you to perform actions requested by the periodontist.

Nitrous oxide is considered the most mild form of sedation dentistry you can receive. The effects of the sedation wear off as quickly as they came after the nasal mask is removed, allowing you to resume normal activities without any interruption.

What Does Oral Conscious Sedation Feel Like?

Oral conscious sedation is taken before your appointment occurs, usually anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour ahead of your arrival time. That way, the medication has enough time to work before you begin your treatment. Oral conscious sedation is stronger and ideal for managing mild to moderate levels of anxiety. While you’ll be awake and able to communicate, you’ll feel more groggy for the rest of the day as the effects take time to wear off. You will need a friend or family member to drive you to the office and back home afterwards.

What Does IV Sedation Feel Like?

Because IV sedation is the strongest form of sedation provided in dental offices, you can expect to be extremely relaxed as soon as the sedative is administered. Its effects will also occur immediately since it is intravenously introduced to the bloodstream.

This option is generally reserved for those with extreme anxiety or a physical inability to remain still during dental treatments. Much like oral conscious sedation, you will need to have someone drive you from the office after receiving it as the side effects will take several hours to wear off completely.

Which Option Should You Choose?

You’ll need to review your medical history with the dentist before they can recommend sedation dentistry in any form. After having a detailed discussion about your needs and unique circumstance, you’ll be informed on how to prepare for your sedation the day prior to your appointment. This generally includes wearing comfortable clothing and not eating up to six hours before your appointment.

You don’t have to put your smile at risk simply due to dental anxiety. To learn more about the effects of sedation dentistry, speak with a periodontist!

About the Author

Dr. Braga offers a variety of sedation dentistry options to help patients remain at ease during their dental appointments. This includes nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation, all of which work to help you remain calm no matter how anxious you may feel about your upcoming treatment. To schedule an appointment, you can contact him through his website.