Patients can choose from the following options when undergoing dental treatment:

•   • No Sedation: patients may choose to maintain full awareness during the procedure with local anesthetic.
  
  

•   • Nitrous Oxide Sedation: commonly called "laughing gas”, nitrous oxide provides relaxation but the patient is still generally aware and able to respond.
  

  • Minimal Sedation: Also known as anxiolysis.  A drug-induced state during which the patient responds normally to verbal commands.  Cognitive function and coordination may be impaired. Ventilatory and cardiovascular functions are unaffected.  It is achieved with an oral medication.

If the patient chooses minimal sedation, the patient is required to arrive with a companion who can drive the patient home after the procedure.   At the completion of the dental procedures, the patient will be allowed to recover from the effects of the sedation before being allowed to go home with the companion.  The patient should not drive or operate machinery while taking sedatives for 24 hours after the procedure.

Sedation dentistry is ideal for people who have:

•   • A high level of fear or anxiety
•   • Suffered past traumatic dental experiences
•   • Difficulty in getting numb
•   • An overactive gag reflex
•   • Very sensitive teeth
•   • Complex dental problems
•   • Time only to squeeze several procedures into a limited time period
•   • A fear of needles and shots
•   • A strong dislike of the noises, smells and taste associated with dental care
•   • TMJ related difficulties where it is uncomfortable to open their mouth for extended periods

Minimal sedation dentistry allows you to relax and rest while you get your dental needs taken care of.  Hours will seem like minutes! Large treatment cases can often be completed in one to two office appointments. Schedule your appointment today!