Why do you need dental sedation?

If you have debilitating dental anxiety and phobias or have had a bad experience in the past, you may benefit from different levels of sedation in our office. We have many levels of sedation ranging from cognitive behavioural therapy—from our caring dentists—to moderate sedation. If you are an anxious dental patient, Lakeridge dental has multiple levels of sedation to make you feel the most comfortable during your appointment. Sedation types include: Nitrous oxide gas, oral sedation and Intravenous sedation. Read on below for more information

Nitrous Oxide Gas Dental Sedation

What is it and how is it administered?
Often known as “laughing gas”, Nitrous Oxide is a fast-acting addition to freezing techniques which can significantly calm the most anxious patient.
Nitrous oxide is used in surgery and dentistry for its mild pain blocking and anxiety-reducing effects. Suitable for children and adults of all ages, this gas is inhaled through a face mask. The level of gas breathed in is monitored and controlled by the dentist to ensure your safety. You will begin to feel relaxed so your dental work can be performed while you stay completely comfortable.

How long will I be sedated for?
The effects of Nitrous Oxide immediately stop once the mask is removed so you will be capable of driving yourself home following the visit or going back to school. You can continue your daily routine as normal.

How will I feel after?
You will feel less anxious after the procedure and will feel back to your normal self as soon as 100% oxygen is administered to remove the effects of the Nitrous oxide.

How long will the effects be for after?
None

Can I drive home after, do I need someone to come with me?
You do not need anyone to accompany you to the clinic before or after the procedure and can drive home yourself. You can continue your daily activities as normal. The exceptions are if you are a child or have a mental disability—these patients will need accompaniment.

What are the risks?
Since the gas is administered through the nose, please reschedule your appointment if you have a cold and cannot breathe through your nose. Please advise your dentist of any health conditions prior to the appointment as a few health conditions preclude the use of it.

What are the alternatives?
No sedation, oral sedation or intravenous sedation

Oral or (IV) Intravenous Sleep Dental Sedation

What is it and how is it administered?
If you have more severe dental anxiety and debilitating dental phobias, we also offer oral conscious sedation and Intravenous sedation. Patients who feel stressed about dental work, even getting into the chair, as well as those who need multiple procedures performed in one visit may benefit from moderate sedation.

IV (intravenous) sedation induces an altered state of consciousness, which is a hazy state of mind and a relaxed body. This form of sedation minimizes pain and discomfort through the use of pain reducers and sedatives. Although you will have no memory of the procedure, patients who receive conscious sedation usually are able to speak and respond to verbal cues throughout the procedure. You will be able to communicate any discomfort experienced to the dentist. While you are under the effects of the drug, the dentist can perform your dental work, and you will remain comfortable.

How long will I be sedated for?
Some patients take an oral sedative the night before, some the hour before. You will not be allowed to operate heavy machinery or drive within the next 24-48 hours as the medication leaves your system.

How will I feel after?
You will feel woozy after the procedure and have no memory of the aftermath. This is why you need someone—a friend or family member—to accompany you to and from the appointment.

How long will the effects be for after?
24-48 hours

Can I drive home after, do I need someone to come with me?
No, you cannot drive home after. You must bring a responsible adult with you to and from the procedure.

What are the risks?
Oversedation. Your heart, lungs and blood pressure will be monitored very closely by the dentist trained in sedation and an anaesthesia nurse.

What are the alternatives?
General anaesthesia, Nitrous oxide sedation, no sedation.
Contact us today to learn more about our sedation options.