Sedation Dentistry

01.

What is the process?

• Consultation and evaluation: You’ll review your medical history, discuss your dental anxiety/comfort needs, and your dentist will recommend the right sedation option for you.
• Choose your sedation type: You’ll receive a plan for either nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral conscious sedation, based on your treatment and comfort level.
• Pre-visit preparation: You’ll get clear instructions before your appointment. If you’re using oral conscious sedation, you’ll need to arrange a ride since you won’t be able to drive until the effects fully wear off.
• Sedation is administered: You’ll inhale nitrous oxide through a small mask before/during treatment, or you’ll take a prescribed pill as directed before your visit.
• Your dental treatment is completed: Once you’re relaxed, your dentist completes your procedure while monitoring your comfort throughout.

Recovery in the office: After treatment, you’ll be monitored while the sedation wears off. Recovery time depends on the sedation used.

02.

What are the next steps?

• Follow your post-care instructions: You’ll receive specific guidance for aftercare based on your procedure and sedation type.
• Plan your transportation (if oral sedation was used): You’ll head home with your driver and rest as needed until you’re fully back to normal.
• Return to routine: With laughing gas, effects typically wear off quickly after the mask is removed, so you can often resume your day normally.
• Schedule follow-up if needed: If your treatment plan requires it, you’ll book your next visit before you leave. If anything feels unusual, you’ll contact the office.