Oral sedation for dental anxiety

Deciding between laughing gas and oral sedation is an important decision that should be made in consultation with your dentist. Both methods of sedation are effective for relieving anxiety and helping you stay relaxed during dental procedures. Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is a mild sedative administered through a mask that you breathe in. It works quickly and wears off shortly, meaning that it's ideal for shorter procedures. Nitrous oxide is also relatively inexpensive, making it a cost-effective option. Oral sedation involves taking a pill prior to the procedure that will help you relax. It's a great option for those with moderate to severe anxiety, or for procedures that take longer than an hour. Oral sedation is stronger than laughing gas, so it may take longer for the effects to wear off. Your dentist will be able to provide you with more information on which sedation method would be best for you, so make sure to ask any questions you may have. Both laughing gas and oral sedation are safe and effective, so you can be assured that either option will work for you.

Diazepam is an older drug that doctors have been using for years to help anxious patients. Unless you are allergic to the drug, there are no harmful side-effects. Doctors like using diazepam in particular because it’s fast-acting and leaves the system quickly and easily.

With oral sedation, you can still breathe normally but you won’t be as lucid and you won’t remember the sights, smells, and sounds of the procedure after the sedative wears off. This makes it perfect for patients who feel intense dental anxiety.If you are undergoing a serious procedure, we most likely will prescribe IV sedation or inhalation dentistry since those do a better job of alleviating pain. While oral sedation does lessen pain, it’s real purpose lies in reducing anxiety.