Sedation

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry helps you feel calm, relaxed and at ease during dental procedures. It’s a minimal level of sedation which means you are still conscious and able to talk and move, but you are able to enjoy a carefree experience.

Who Needs Sedation Dentistry?

At Austin & Tatum Dental we are able to offer nitrous oxide sedation to all ages, and minimal sedation to ages 15 and up. Sedation dentistry is often recommended for those with:

• Dental anxiety

• A fear of visiting the dentist

• An overly sensitive gag reflex

• A fear of needles (aichmophobia)

• Extreme teeth sensitivity

• Feelings of claustrophobia while in the dental chair

• Decreased sensitivity to local anesthesia

• Difficulty controlling movements

Types of Sedation

Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is commonly known as “laughing gas.” You inhale nitrous oxide through a mask or nosepiece, and calming effects begin within moments. Your dentist controls the amount of sedation you receive and adjusts the dosage accordingly throughout your procedure as needed. Once your treatment is over, your dentist gives you pure oxygen to flush the nitrous oxide out of your system quickly. Since nitrous oxide leaves your system so quickly, you will be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.​

Oral minimal sedation
With oral minimal sedation your dentist gives you sedative medication (usually in pill form) about thirty minutes to an hour before your procedure begins. Most dental providers use triazolam (Halcion®), which is in the diazepam (Valium®) family, but we may decide to use other medications, too, including lorazepam.​ Oral sedation makes you quite groggy and you may even fall asleep. You will still be able to communicate with us if necessary, and you can be awakened with a gentle nudge. Since oral sedation temporarily affects your memory and motor skills you will need a family member to drive you home after your procedure.