PATIENT INFORMATION

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation (usually in the form of anti-anxiety pills also known as “happy pills”) is prescribed for relieving anxiety in the hours immediately before a dental appointment. This type of medication belongs to the “benzodiazepine” family and is very safe. The most commonly used benzodiazepines are Valium, Halcion, Xanax, or Ativan. An anti-anxiety or a sleeping pill taken the night before the appointment and additional dose taken an hour before dental appointment. This medication decrease anxiety by binding with receptors in the brain which tone down activity in those parts of the brain responsible for fear. Please, be aware that you must be accompanied to and from your dental appointment and should not attempt to drive yourself for the rest of the day.

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe.

Nitrous Oxide has been the the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide.

The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
There is no after effect such as a "hangover".
Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.

Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide

You should not utilize Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your dentist for a "5 minute trial" to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.

We can also provide a combination of oral sedation and nitrous oxide to achieve minimal sedation for patients who have severe dentalphobia.