Relaxing Sedation Dentistry
in Searcy, AR
Dental visits can feel stressful, especially if you have had an uncomfortable experience in the past, have a strong gag reflex, or feel nervous about certain procedures. At Neaville Family Dentistry, we offer sedation options to help make dental care feel more comfortable and manageable. Nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation can reduce anxiety while allowing you to remain responsive during treatment. Have a question? Ready to schedule with us? Contact us today!
Contact UsNitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas, is a mild form of sedation that can help you feel calm and relaxed during your appointment. It is inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose and typically begins working within a few minutes. You remain awake and able to communicate with our dental team throughout treatment.
Nitrous oxide may be helpful for patients who experience mild to moderate dental anxiety, feel uncomfortable during dental procedures, have a sensitive gag reflex, or simply want a more relaxed experience. Once treatment is complete, the nitrous oxide is stopped and its effects generally wear off quickly, allowing most patients to return to their normal activities shortly afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does nitrous oxide feel like?
Patients often describe feeling relaxed, calm, or slightly lightheaded while breathing nitrous oxide. Some people experience a warm or floating sensation. You remain conscious and can communicate with the dental team throughout your appointment.
Is nitrous oxide safe?
Nitrous oxide is considered a very safe sedation option for many patients when properly administered and monitored. Before treatment, we will review your health history and discuss whether nitrous oxide is appropriate for you.
Can children receive nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide may be an option for some children who feel nervous about dental treatment. Our team will consider your child’s age, health, ability to cooperate, and the planned treatment before recommending sedation.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation uses medication taken by mouth before a dental appointment to promote a deeper sense of relaxation. You remain conscious and able to respond to instructions, but you may feel very drowsy and have little memory of the procedure afterward.
This option may be helpful for patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety, those who have difficulty sitting comfortably through treatment, patients with a strong gag reflex, or those who have avoided dental care because of fear. It may also be considered when multiple procedures can be completed during a longer appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be awake during oral conscious sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is designed to help you relax while keeping you responsive. However, you may become very drowsy and may not remember much about your appointment afterward.
Can I drive myself home after receiving oral conscious sedation?
Because oral sedation can affect your alertness and coordination for several hours, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you as directed by our dental team.
Does oral conscious sedation have any side effects?
The most common side effect of oral conscious sedation is drowsiness. Patients sometimes report headache, nausea, and dry mouth as additional side effects. Should any side effects last longer than 24 hours or you develop a fever, please contact our office.
A More Comfortable Dental Experience
You do not have to let dental anxiety keep you from getting the care you need. Neaville Family Dentistry can help you understand your sedation options and determine which approach may be appropriate based on your comfort level, health history, and treatment needs. Ask us about nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation when scheduling your next visit!
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