Sedation

SEDATION

Sedation provides a calm, relaxed and comfortable environment for many of our patients. We offer multiple sedation options including IV sedation, nitrous oxide and oral sedation.

woman sleeping

SEDATION

Sedation provides a calm, relaxed and comfortable environment for many of our patients. We offer multiple sedation options including IV sedation, nitrous oxide and oral sedation.

Types of Sedation

We offer IV conscious sedation, nitrous oxide and oral sedation. IV sedation is a method of anesthesia that helps the patient to fall into a dreamlike sleep. This type of sedation is ideal for longer or more complex surgical procedures, as it maximizes patient comfort. Those receiving IV sedation must fast for 8 hours prior to surgery, and it requires a friend or family member to bring them to our office and take them home after treatment.

Nitrous oxide gas is another sedation option. Used for over a century as a mild anesthetic, nitrous oxide is administered through a soft nasal mask and takes effect rather quickly. Nitrous oxide produces a calm and euphoric feeling for most people. Since this form of sedation wears off very quickly, patients can normally drive themselves home after their appointments.

person laying in grass

Oral sedation involves the use of prescription medications that are used to relieve anxiety. Since these medications impair cognitive function, patients must arrange for transportation to and from our office.

To learn more about sedation and our other services, please call our office and reserve a consultation with Dr. Jackson.

Sedation FAQs

Most frequent questions and answers

A: Dental anxieties and phobias are common problems among many folks. Falling under the category of an anxiety disorder, dental phobias are very intense feelings of fear and panic specific to dental treatment. Patients with severe dental anxiety may avoid professional treatment for years because their fears are so intense. Others may be able to attend routine appointments but do so under obvious duress. Sometimes the feelings of anxiety and panic are triggered by specific sounds that one might hear in a dental office or oral surgery operatory. For instance, the sound of a drill could evoke feelings of strong nervousness and panic.

Because dental anxiety is quite common and can impede a patient’s ability to receive the care they need and deserve, our practice offers sedation. We provide varying levels of sedation from nitrous oxide to the administration of prescription sedatives. The type of sedation utilized will depend on the person’s level of anxiety and the type of treatment necessary.

A: Conscious sedation involves the administration of sedatives to help a patient relax and have a positive experience during treatment. This form of sedation is not total anesthesia, however. While the medication can make a patient feel groggy or sleepy, a person can still be able to respond to questions and commands if necessary.
A: The cost varies depending on the type of sedation provided. For example, administering nitrous oxide is very cost effective. If oral prescriptions are purchased, there are generic varieties available that are very affordable, even without insurance. Patients receiving intravenous sedation, however, will incur higher costs if dental insurance only covers part of treatment or if one has no dental insurance. Since everyone’s situation is unique, it is best to discuss the cost of treatments with our staff. Based on our oral surgeon’s treatment recommendations for the individual, we can give a more accurate breakdown and estimate of costs. As a courtesy to our patients, we will handle the filing of all insurance claims as well.
A: Whether a person is suitable for sedation depends on many factors that will need to be discussed with our oral surgeon. When determining if a patient is a candidate for specific types of sedation, we will inquire about your medical history, current medication regimen, known reactions or allergies to certain drugs, and your overall health before determining if sedation is right for you. When planning treatment, our staff takes a customized approach based on the unique needs of each patient.
A: The types of sedation available to our patients are nitrous oxide gas, prescriptions in tablet form, and IV sedation. Sedation is used to help control panic and nervousness associated with dental phobias along with promoting patient comfort during lengthy or more invasive treatment. In some instances, sedation can help a patient remain still during longer procedures, which will help our team work precisely and without obstruction.