Types of Dental Sedation

When patients have anxiety about dental procedures, they often opt for dental sedation, otherwise known as sleep dentistry. While not all sedation involves actual sleep, some do. Find out about the types of sleep sedation available and speak to your dentist about the best option for you. 

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What is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation involves a variety of techniques that are used to calm a patient down before or during a dental procedure or to make patients more comfortable during long procedures. The sedative can be administered through a number of ways, such as inhalation, orally, or through an IV.

There are different levels of sedation dentistry, such as:

• Minimal sedation: The patient is awake but relaxed.
• Moderate sedation (conscious sedation): The patient may slur their words when speaking and not remember much of the procedure.
• Deep sedation: The patient is on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
• General anesthesia: The patient is completely unconscious.

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What Types of Sedation Are Used in Dentistry?

• Laughing gas/inhaled minimal sedation: Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as “laughing gas” is combined with oxygen and given through a mask that is placed over your nose. The gas helps you relax and your dentist can control the amount of sedation you receive. The gas wears off quickly. This is the only type of sedation that allows patients to drive themselves home after the procedure.
  

• Oral sedation: Oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate and is given in pill form. This is typically taken at least an hour before the procedure. Oral sedation can make patients drowsy, but they are still awake. Depending on the dosage, patients may fall asleep; however they usually can be awakened with a gentle shake.
  

• IV sedation: IV sedation is given through the vein, so it does work quicker. This method allows the dentist to continuously control the level of sedation.
  

• Deep sedation/general anesthesia: This type of sedation is given to patients so they are either almost unconscious or totally unconscious and in a deep sleep throughout the procedure. With this type of sedation, patients cannot be easily awakened until the effects have worn off or are reversed with medication.

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Sedation Dentistry in Simi Valley

At Simi Valley Periodontics, our team is highly trained and experienced in sedation dentistry. If you are interested in learning more about what is best for you, contact us today for dental sedation in Simi Valley!