Conscious Sedation

With conscious sedation dentistry, there are no intravenous anesthetics involved and you will not be entirely unconscious during your dental procedure. Conscious sedation dentistry is a means of putting you in an extremely relaxed state - the point to which you may not feel anything that's happening, but you will be able to communicate with those around you. The technique is designed to help those who have dental anxiety, or completely avoid the dentist, for reasons such as:

• Fear of needles
• Sensitive teeth
• Fear of dental treatments
• Fear of dentists
• Discomfort with tastes and noises associated with dental procedures
• Dental issues that could require long treatment times
• Difficulty feeling numb after local anesthetic injections

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or "laughing gas," is used as a mild sedative. It is delivered through a nose hood, and is administered throughout the entire procedure. Nitrous oxide elevates the general mood and can evoke a general sense of well-being. Most importantly, it relieves anxiety and reduces pain during the procedure. In addition, some tingling and numbness may be felt. There are few side effects associated with nitrous oxide, and it has been safely used in dentistry for many years.Once your procedure begins, you will not be completely asleep. At all times, you will be able to talk with our dentist and our care team. A member of our staff will constantly monitor your vital signs during treatment to ensure that everything is okay. Remember, conscious sedation only mimics sleep - you will be in an intensely relaxed state, not unconscious. The whole point of conscious sedation dentistry is to make it possible for you to not experience pain or discomfort during your procedure.