People can dislike coming to see us. We understand. For those who need something to keep them from being overly anxious during their appointments, there are solutions. We offer conscious sedation in the form of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation, or nitrous oxide plus an oral sedative. And it may not only be for the anxious! Sedation can be a great option for those who gag easily, feel claustrophobic, or just plain don’t want to be awake for their dentistry.
Nitrous oxide:
This type of gas inhalation is our most common sedation, and is very safe. During the appointment, you are awake, but simply relaxed. Young children benefit greatly from this as well, as it can take away fear of dental appointments and turn them into fun, positive experiences.
Not only is nitrous oxide safe, there is also a very short recovery time (usually about 5 minutes), so there is no “hangover” effect. You are safe to drive home on your own.
Nitrous oxide with oral sedative:
This is used when there is a bit more anxiety, or perhaps the dental procedure is a bit more involved or lengthy. You are more sedated that with just the nitrous oxide, but you will remain conscious. This type of sedation is usually followed by some amnesia about the procedure as well. For nervous children or longer pediatric dental appointments, this option can be ideal.
You are monitored by our nurse throughout the appointment, and because recovery is slower, you will need someone to take you back home.
General Anesthesia at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre:
For the extremely phobic or medically compromised anxious patient, or perhaps someone with an extremely large amount of required dental work, we also offer the option of General Anesthesia at Royal Victoria Hospital. This is full-on, unconscious sedation administered by a hospital anesthesia specialist and is a great adjunct to our in-house options when appropriate. A longer workup is required for this, including a physician’s history and physical as well as a hospital anesthesia consultation. Although this is an outpatient event, you will still need to be driven home and limit your activities until full recovery
