You didn’t realize that there are different levels of dental sedation? Most people don’t. The levels vary because each person has unique needs, and not all dental procedures require the same amount of sedation. This overview of the types of dental sedation offered at the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry will help you understand the options and when they are used.
Two Common Types of Dental Sedation
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide creates a more relaxed state, which can make it easier to numb your gums. It also makes treatment more comfortable. If you need a higher level of dental sedation, it will likely be paired with nitrous oxide. The effects of nitrous oxide are quickly reversed after treatment ends. It is an ideal choice for people who need to drive themselves to and from appointments because you won’t experience drowsiness or lingering side effects.
When nitrous oxide is used:
- Mild-to-moderate anxiety
- Difficulty numbing your gums with local anesthetic
- Short appointments
- Long appointments
Tip: At the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, nitrous oxide can be paired with dental spa services to enhance your relaxation. We offer Zen chairs and chairside massage to provide a pampering experience.
Oral Conscious Sedation (OCS)
Oral conscious sedation (OCS) is administered in pill form. You will take it before you arrive at our office. Although the medication isn’t intended to make you sleep, many people are so relaxed that they doze on and off. You will likely forget most or all of what happened during treatment.
If you receive OCS, you will be conscious throughout your dental procedure and be able to interact with our dental team. OCS is routinely chosen for dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, root canals, scaling and root planning, and extractions.
When you choose oral conscious sedation, you will be drowsy before, during, and after your dental procedure, so you will need transportation to and from your appointment. Also, if the dentist recommends it, someone will need to stay with you for the rest of the day or until the medication wears off. At the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, in advance of your appointment, we will provide you with clear pre- and post-treatment instructions.
When OCS is used:
- Moderate-to-high anxiety
- Difficulty numbing your gums with local anesthetic
- Short appointments
- Long appointments
- Complex or more invasive procedures
- Oral surgery
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Special training and licensure is required to administer sedation dentistry. Special protocols are required for the care of sedated patients. At the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, our dentists are trained and certified to safely provide sedation.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re unsure about whether or not sedation is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. King or another one of our dentists at the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry. We will listen to your concerns and explain your options.