Red Deer Sedation Dentistry

Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is an effective and safe sedative that is made up of oxygen and nitrogen that is inhaled through a small mask that fits over the nose. Inhaling the gas helps to bring about a mild to moderate state of relaxation; you will be able to hear and respond to any direction or request, but you should ultimately feel quite comfortable and relaxed. Effects of nitrous oxide wear off rather quickly after the mask is removed from your nose, so you can usually drive yourself home after your dental appointment.

IV sedation, or intravenous sedation, refers to the administration of anti-anxiety medication administered intravenously, that helps you feel relaxed and at peace during your dental treatment. It is administered through a carefully placed thin needle into your vein. It starts to work immediately and is often described as “twilight sleep.”  While it does not put you to sleep fully, it does make you feel comfortable, calm, and less aware of your surroundings. You can still respond to verbal commands and gentle nudging, but you will likely not remember the procedure. It helps you relax and feel at peace, so you can obtain the dental care you require without the worry, stress, and anxiety. You will feel very minimal pain, if any at all, during the procedure. It creates long periods of amnesia, so you will not remember the procedure at all when you wake up.