Young boy in the dental chair with a mask dispensing nitrous oxide dental sedation.

What Types of Sedation Options Are There?

March 30, 2021 5:06 pm


Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, is utilized to improve a patient’s experience at the dentist. Whether they suffer from mild to moderate dental fear and anxiety or they’re undergoing a dental procedure, sedation dentistry can help! Keep reading to learn more about the main types of sedation dentistry and what they can do for you!

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is one of the most common forms of dental sedation. It is a sweet-smelling gas that’s administered through a face mask during the appointment. Nitrous oxide is safe for both kids and adults. It is known for putting patients into a silly, giggly state, which is how it got its nickname. Nitrous oxide is the perfect sedative for anxious patients and patients undergoing more routine dental procedures.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is a stronger sedative than nitrous oxide. It is an anti-anxiety pill prescribed to patients that they take before their appointment begins. It puts patients into a deep state of relaxation, but they remain conscious. Oral conscious sedation helps patients with more severe dental anxiety. It’s also used for those who need longer, more complex dental treatment.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is our strongest form of sedation and is used for patients undergoing oral surgery. This type of sedative puts patients into a sleep-like state and they won’t remember anything from their procedure. This level of sedation is not commonly available in a dental office but Dr. Alex Mehraban is highly trained and experienced in providing IV sedation. When patients are under IV sedation, we closely monitor their vital signs to make sure they are safe throughout their procedure.

Sedation Dentistry in Canton, GA

Which type of sedation is best for me? Every patient and situation is different. Our team will be able to help you determine what level of sedation is right for you or your family member. Riverstone Dental Care is pleased to offer multiple sedation options for our patients. Questions about sedation dentistry? Contact us to learn more!


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