You Won't Be Out Cold (Unless You Want To Be!)

Does your heart start pounding at the simple thought of having a cavity filled? Do you get sweaty palms when you pass a dental practice?

Many people who have improved their smiles with cosmetic dentistry or underwent extensive restoration procedures chose to use sedation. Though the terms ‘sleep dentistry’ and ‘oral conscious sedation’ are often used interchangeably, they are not identical. Let’s look at the three main types of sedation used in dentistry.

Nitrous Oxide
The first level uses nitrous oxide, or ‘laughing gas’ as it is typically called. Nitrous oxide has been used in cosmetic dental offices for decades because it is safe and effective. It goes to work at the first inhalation, relaxes the patient during the service, but wears off quickly after the mask is pulled off. If you need a little help to get through dental care, but don’t want to be knocked out cold, nitrous may be the best option.

Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral sedatives don’t start working as swiftly as nitrous oxide, but they help most patients achieve a deeper level of tranquility. These medications, however, do not usually lead to complete unconsciousness. Thus, oral sedatives and nitrous oxide are used in ‘conscious’ sedation. Two of the most common sedatives used by Oceanside dentists are diazepam and triazolam.

IV Sedation
IV sedation uses medications similar to those used in surgery and results in true ‘sleep dentistry.’ Most patients are oblivious to what is occurring in their mouths. IV sedation is often used for care such as root canals, wisdom teeth extractions, and multi-procedure smile transformations. (The sedation will wear off shortly after the procedure, so you won’t need a handsome prince’s kiss to wake you up.)

For more details about sedation dentistry, adult braces, tooth implants, or porcelain veneers, call Oceanside Dental Excellence at 760-439-3400.