Oral Sedation

Our Process

Depending on the total dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill if you are an adult or a liquid if you are a child. This medication will make you drowsy, although you’ll still be awake. A larger dose may be given to produce moderate sedation. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. Some people become sedated enough from moderate oral sedation to actually fall asleep during the procedure. They usually can, though, be awakened with a gentle shake.

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What is Oral Sedation?

Oral sedation is another option used at Phi Dental Care to help make patients more comfortable during specific dental procedures. Oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate, depending on the total dose. For minimal sedation, adults take a pill, or children take it as a liquid. The medication will make you drowsy, although you’ll still be awake. A larger dose may be given to produce moderate sedation. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. Some people become groggy enough from moderate oral sedation to fall asleep during the procedure, although they can be awakened with a gentle shake.

What is Nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is one option we offer to help make you more comfortable during specific procedures. Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. It is not intended to put you to sleep, so you can still hear and respond to any requests or directions our dentists may have.

What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like?

Your dentist will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes, you should start to feel the effects of the nitrous oxide. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.