Sedation Dentist – Beachwood, OH

Oral Conscious Dental Sedation

For patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia, those who have sensitive teeth, gums, or gag reflex, and those who need complex treatments, oral conscious sedation offers a safe, effective means of delivering the care they need. A sedative is prescribed prior to treatment, and patients take the medication at a predetermined time before their procedure. The sedative is long lasting allowing patients to relax and reducing pain and discomfort throughout treatment. Patients will need to have a friend or family member accompany them to and from their appointment and should plan to rest for at least 24 hours following their first dose of medication.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

With nitrous oxide, all you have to do is breathe. A small mask is placed over your nose, through which you inhale a colorless, nearly odorless gas that creates feelings of warmth and euphoria. The mask stays on for the entire appointment, and after we take it off, the effects go away quickly and do not linger. This means you can get back to your day right away and even drive yourself home from your appointment.

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Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is an excellent option for patients who struggle with mild to moderate dental anxiety or fear. It can also be helpful for individuals with a strong gag reflex or who are not easily numbed by local anesthesia. We even use it for children because it is safe for patients of virtually all ages!

Of course, nitrous oxide may not be ideal for everyone. If you are pregnant, have certain respiratory conditions, or are currently taking certain medications, you might not be a candidate for this type of sedation. Our team will learn about your medical history before approving you for nitrous oxide.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

Nitrous oxide does not involve the use of any needles or pills. Rather, we simply place a mask over your nose, through which we administer a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Then, all you have to do is breathe. Within a minute or two, you should start to feel the effects of the sedation. You may notice that you are relaxed. Some patients feel giddy and start to giggle, which is why nitrous oxide is also known as “laughing gas.”

After your treatment, the mask will be removed, and you will start to feel like yourself within a few minutes.

Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide

The effects of nitrous oxide do not linger for very long, but you will still need to stay in our office for a few minutes while you return to your normal state of mind. Our team will keep an eye on you just in case you experience any negative side effects. Once you leave your appointment, you should feel well enough to operate a vehicle or return to work. However, keep in mind that if you underwent a complex dental procedure, you may need to take it easy for a few days. Our team will provide specific post-treatment instructions to help you enjoy a smooth recovery.