Conscious Sedation

"Taking care of your teeth and gums isn't just about preventing cavities or bad breath, the mouth is a gateway into your body's overall health."   ~~ The American Dental Association

In addition, needing dental work from time to time is often very helpful not only to your oral health but your overall health too.

Many people feel some sort of mild anxiety not only from visiting their dentist but also regular visits with their doctor and are still able to handle it just fine. There are some that are so frightened, they will avoid routine cleanings, exams and treatments even though they know they need it. According to the Columbia University of Dental Medicine approximately 30 – 40 million people in the U.S. alone are plagued with this fear and anxiety.

Conscious sedation is used to relax and ease the patient during dental treatment through the use of sedatives. It is sometimes called “sleep dentistry” although the label can be misleading. Generally, with conscious sedation, you will remain in a trancelike state and are able to respond to simple commands from your dentist. Conscious sedation is ideal for fearful patients.

Seabreeze Dental Clinic offers Enteral Conscious Sedation (Oral Sedation) and Inhalation Conscious sedation.

Oral Sedation is administered by taking pills. Usually a pill will be taken an hour before the appointment. During treatment, the patient will enter a state of deep relaxation, and may fall asleep. If the patient remains awake they may not remember a great deal. The biggest downside is after treatment patients may feel groggy and must have a driver to take them home.

Inhalation Conscious Sedation (laughing gas) is the most frequently used and is considered to be a light form of sedation. Your dentist places a mask over your nose to administer nitrous oxide. The gas is breathed in through the nose and breathed out through the mouth. As soon as the procedure is over, the nitrous oxide wears off with almost no side effects or recovery time.