What is Sleep Dentistry?

General anesthesia is a controlled state of unconsciousness that eliminates awareness, movement and discomfort during dental treatment. Our office works closely with an anesthesiologist who uses a variety of medications to provide general anesthesia for patients who are nervous, fearful or anxious of dental treatment.

We provide sleep dentistry for patients of all ages in a dedicated general anesthesia operatory with a Type A facility permit. General anesthesia may be ideal for children with extensive dental needs who are extremely uncooperative, fearful or anxious, or for the very young, who do not understand how to cope in a co-operative fashion.

How Does Sedation Work?

IV or Intravenous Sedation is used to provide pain relief in dentistry. An injection of sedative is given to the patient prior to a painful procedure such as a tooth extraction.

The patient becomes drowsy and experiences no pain during the procedure. IV Sedation is a safe alternative to anesthesia, especially for patients with heart disease, children with certain medical conditions, diabetics, etc. During IV sedation the patient is able to breath on their own. Nitrous, a sedative gas, is the most common sedation method in dentistry. It is inhaled by the patient. Patients experience a dizzy feeling then feel happy and elated.

Nitrous Oxide works quickly and leaves the system just as quickly. Dental laughing gas or nitrous oxide is a form of ‘conscious sedation’, that can help reduce dental anxiety. Since nitrous oxide is inhaled, it acts fast and leaves the body very quickly. The patient is awake throughout the procedure and able to drive home or back to the office to finish the work day. Nitrous oxide should not be use by pregnant patients or patients with respiratory disorders. This office offers oral sedation and nitrous oxide.

Other Sedation options

Nitrous Oxide Oral Conscious Sedation

Your dentist will prescribe a sedative you should take an hour prior to your appointment. If you have a higher level of dental anxiety, the doctor may prescribe an oral sedative to be taken at home one hour before bed as well. You will need to have a ride to and from your appointment. Patients receiving oral sedation are not permitted to drive for at least 24 hours following their appointment.