Oral and IV Sedation

Sedation
Sedation is a process used to establish a relaxed, easy and calm state through the use of sedatives. Sedative drugs can be administered in a variety of ways, such as orally, inhalation and intravenously. Sedation dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for certain people receiving dental treatment. It enables individuals too afraid to go to the dentist to receive the dental care they need while avoiding the common apprehension known as “dental phobia”. Thirty percent of the population avoids the dentist due to fear. This all-too-common dental phobia prevents people from receiving necessary routine dental care, potentially compromising the health and functionality of their mouth and smile.

Candidates for Sedation
Patients who have fear of dentistry and/or had traumatic dental experiences can benefit greatly from sedation dentistry. It is also helpful for patients who have difficulty getting numb, have a bad gag reflex and very sensitive teeth. Sedation may also be recommended for patients who dislike needles and shots, as well as the noises, smells, and tastes associated with dental care. Other patients who are afraid or embarrassed about their teeth or just want to be comfortable can discuss with Dr. Louie if whether they can have sedation during their dental procedure. Some patients, who are planning to have extensive dental work, but have limited time to complete their dental care, can opt for sedation for faster accomplishment of dental procedures.

In our office, we offer oral, inhalation and IV sedation. Please feel free to ask us about Sedation Dentistry on your first visit.

Types of Sedation

Oral Sedation
Oral sedation dentistry is now the most common technique used in the United States that is easy and requires no needles. This type of sedation maintains a level of consciousness in the patient for safety and cooperation. It is important to note that patients are NOT ASLEEP with oral sedation and that sedation is different from anesthetic injections. Although some forms of sedation (such as nitrous oxide gas) may raise your threshold for pain, most dental treatments still require a local anesthetic injected in the mouth, even when sedation dentistry techniques are performed.

Inhalation Sedation
Inhalation sedation with the use of nitrous oxide (N2O) also known as laughing gas, is one of the most commonly used types of sedation in dentistry. Nitrous oxide is a colorless sweet-tasting gas which you can breathe in and is non-irritating. It is commonly called laughing gas since it produces euphoria and mirth when inhaled in small amounts. This type of sedation can be given for the exact time span it is needed for. It has a relaxing and analgesic effect which is beneficial for the patient.

Intravenous (IV) Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation is one of several options available to significantly reduce patient’s fears and discomfort during dental procedures. This type of sedation is quick-acting and is extremely effective for moderate to severe anxiety. The level of sedation can be adjusted during the procedure so that the patient will remain comfortable at all times. An anti-anxiety drug is administered into the bloodstream to achieve a state of “deep conscious sedation”. Although the patient will not actually be asleep, they will enjoy a heightened state of relaxation — and probably won’t remember much about the procedure afterwards. The appointment will be a dream and hours in the chair will feel like minutes.

Regardless of the type of sedation dentistry you receive, it is important to have a responsible caregiver accompany you to the procedure (and drive you there if you must take oral medication before arriving for your appointment). The caregiver should drive you home after the procedure is complete and stay with you for an additional two to four hours at home.