Conscious Sedation
“Conscious sedation”, is not meant to knock you out – that’s why you’re still conscious! We offer two types of conscious sedation; Nitrous Oxide Sedation and Oral Sedation.
If you feel fear, apprehension or embarrassment when you are sitting in the dental chair, you are not alone. Many patients experience moderate to severe feelings of fear or anxiety surrounding their dental appointments.
Grand Village Dental is dedicated to maximizing your comfort and eliminating your worries so you can get the treatment you need without any hassle.
What Is A Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Who can receive Nitrous Oxide Sedation?
Nitrous Oxide Sedation Overview
If you decide to have your dentist administer nitrous oxide, they will place a small mask over your nose that will emit a continuous stream of gas.
After that, it is as simple as regular breathing!
The mask will first deliver 100% oxygen and then gradually increase the dosage of nitrous oxide. You should feel the effects almost immediately.
During the procedure, the dentist can adjust the amount of gas at any time if they think you are getting too much or not enough. Our staff will monitor you throughout your treatment to ensure you are safe and comfortable.
When your treatment is finished and the gas is shut off, the effects will begin to disappear right away. It may take a few minutes to feel totally normal.
Once the effects have completely worn off, you will be able to drive yourself home!
What Is Oral Sedation?
Patients who feel uncomfortable about their dental treatment can choose to receive oral sedation. This involves taking an anti-anxiety pill about an hour before your dental appointment begins. If you need extensive work done or have not been to a dentist in awhile, this may be a good option.
Oral sedation is not meant to knock you out. Instead, it will just relax you while the dentist works on your teeth. You will still be awake and able to respond to the dentist if they ask you any questions. Patients typically report feeling drowsy, carefree and generally “out of it.”
The medications used for oral sedation are called benzodiazepines. Doctors normally prescribe these drugs for anxiety and panic disorders, which makes them very useful for patients who experience fear in the dental chair.
Who can receive Oral Sedation?
Oral Sedation Overview
Benzodiazepines may negatively interact with other medications. Be sure to let us know in advance about any prescriptions, over-the-counter products or dietary supplements you are taking. You must also avoid consuming alcohol before and after you receive oral sedation, because the combined sedative effects can be very dangerous.
Before your appointment, we recommend that you refrain from eating anything or drinking any non-clear liquids for at least six hours. Eating shortly before you take the medication may reduce its effectiveness and can cause nausea.
You may have trouble remembering all of your procedure, which some patients find to be a good thing. Our team will monitor your level of sedation as well as your vital signs to ensure your total comfort and safety.
Once your treatment is finished, you will not be able to drive home. Benzodiazepines inhibit your judgment and coordination much like alcohol, so you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. It is normal to feel groggy and tired once the medication begins to wear off.
You should refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after receiving oral sedation.