Types of Dental Sedation

If the thought of visiting the dentist gives you a lot of anxiety, sedation dentistry might be something that benefits you! Sedation dentistry involves many different techniques that allow a patient to relax during medical procedures or uncomfortable appointments! Certain types of sedation may require medical clearance, depending on your overall health and the severity of your dental concerns. Here are the different types of sedation:

Nitrous oxide / Laughing gas

This is the most common form of sedation used in dental practices. Laughing gas does not put you to sleep but is quite effective at reducing levels of anxiety.The effects usually wear off quite fast, making it easy for you to go back to work or for your child to return to school after. Local anaesthesia can be combined with nitrous oxide for further efficiency.

General Anaesthesia

General anesthesia will have you asleep for your entire dental procedure! It’s usually administered by being injected into the vein and is usually combined with a gaseous anaesthetic. General anaesthesia is used for highly anxious individuals and might be the preferred option for more severe dental treatments & complex oral surgeries.

Enteral Sedation

This type of sedation comes in the form of a pill or liquid that can easily be taken orally, and usually combined with nitrous oxide. Under enteral sedation, you may relax and fall asleep but you will still be able to wake easily, and respond to instructions.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is a common type of sedation where the drugs are injected directly into the vein. This gives a stronger sedative effect than oral or inhalation sedation, but still allows patients to remain awake. While oral sedatives may take up to an hour to act, IV sedation takes effect rather quickly.

Our dentists are qualified and trained to administer dental sedation with ease. Your fear of the dentist doesn’t have to stop you from getting the beautiful smile you deserve! Our expert practitioners can walk you through every step of the way.

Call our team at Purity Dental on (03) 9540 8900 for more details!