You've decided to have dental sedation for an upcoming dental procedure. But what does it feel like to be sedated? Our Surrey dentists at Guildford Smiles Dentistry share their insights from years of experience.
What will I feel during nitrous oxide sedation or conscious sedation?
It's normal to feel worried leading up to your dental sedation appointment — especially if this will be your first time. But since knowledge is powerful, you'll likely feel more in control after you've learned more about what oral conscious and nitrous oxide sedation are, and how it feels. In this post, we'll share some general information so you'll have some clarity once you arrive at your appointment.
What is nitrous oxide sedation?
The mildest form of sedation we offer is nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas). Nitrous oxide is administered through a small mask that fits over your nose. The levels of sedation are controlled during your appointment, ensuring you feel comfortable at all times. Nitrous oxide is extremely safe, as it enters and exits the body quickly.
What is conscious sedation?
Oral conscious sedation can help patients with moderate to extreme dental anxiety feel more calm, relaxed and at ease, and less stressed and nervous. This form of sedation uses prescription medication administered at our dental office. You may even doze off during treatment.
Long-lasting enough to allow your dentist to complete most dental procedures, oral conscious sedation is safe for most healthy patients. To avoid any drug interactions, your dentist will take a full medical history prior to your procedure.
How does it feel to be under sedation?
With oral conscious sedation, feelings of anxiety or pain will vanish. You will feel sleepy but remain fully conscious during your treatment and able to communicate with your dentist and be responsive to instructions. If you do fall asleep, you can easily be woken with a gentle shake.
Typically, patients who have oral conscious sedation remember little about what transpired during the procedure. Many patients say they feel like they have had a conscious dream after taking oral sedation. Recovery from oral sedation is much faster than with general anesthesia.
Nitrous oxide sedation is appropriate for both adults and children and helps patients feel more relaxed and calm. It may even cause feelings of euphoria. You will remain awake and able to communicate, and time may seem to pass more quickly.
Our team will monitor your vital signs during your treatment to ensure your safety at all times. Drs. Salman and Seddick are certified and experienced in sedation dentistry, so you can be assured that you'll be in good hands.
Can I drive myself home after having dental sedation?
While laughing gas wears off quickly, the effects of oral sedation can take hours to leave your system. Your dentist will let you know if you will need someone to drive you home following your appointment.
Do not let dental fear or anxiety keep you from getting the dental treatment you need. Our dentists can assess whether dental sedation is an option for you and help you choose between nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation for your procedure.