Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who are nervous or anxious about dental procedures. Sedation dentistry gives patients with dental anxiety the ability to access dental care rather than avoid it.

Nitrous sedation and oral sedation are both offered at Viva Dental.

Nitrous Sedation

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is the most minimal form of sedation. It is administered by breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through the nose. This results in a light sedation that helps patients relax and remain in a comfortable state during their treatment. The patient remains conscious and responsive for the entire duration.

At the end of the procedure, the patient receives several minutes of oxygen to flush the nitrous oxide. Because it is a gas, the effects of nitrous oxide wear off very quickly, and patients can usually drive home after their procedure.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation provides a minimal to moderate form of sedation for patients. It is administered by taking 1-2 pills of a sedative medication approximately 1 hour prior to your dental procedure. This is done at the dental office under the care of your dentist. Patients tend to feel drowsy with oral sedatives. However, they remain conscious enough to follow instructions. Some amnesia (memory loss) may occur.

The effects of oral sedation last much longer, and therefore, the patient requires a responsible person to drive them home from their appointment and monitor them until they have fully recovered from the effects of the sedation.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions.

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?
Laughing Gas Sedation is considered safe and effective in managing pain and anxiety in patients when used appropriately. Our dentists provide Nitrous Sedation to provide you with the utmost care and comfort during your treatment. After the procedure, the nitrous is turned off, and oxygen is administered for a few minutes to help flush out any remaining gas. The effects wear off almost instantly. Nitrous oxide rarely has side effects. Before performing the procedure, our general dentists at Viva Dental will provide you with pre-sedation and post-sedation instructions.
Does Nitrous Oxide Sedation have side effects?
Only a minority of patients experience side effects. These side effects can be due to the nitrous levels being too high, or if the amount of nitrous is being inhaled too quickly. The side effects can be as follows: Headaches, Shivering, Excessive sweating, Nausea, Fatigue.