The use of sedation in dentistry has revolutionized the way patients view dental visits. Patients who once were afraid or anxious about even the most routine dental procedures now visit the dentist with confidence. Sedation is typically administered to healthy individuals who need help relaxing or managing anxiety related to their dental visit. Reasons for needing sedation may include lengthy procedure times, dental phobias, or fear caused by negative experiences in the past.
Nitrous Oxide
A mixture of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen is administered through a nasal breathing apparatus. The patient remains conscious in a relaxed condition. Nitrous oxide has a sedative and analgesic (pain- controlling) effect.
Oral Sedation
Oral conscious sedation is a mild narcotic in the form of a pill or liquid which undergoes rapid absorption and has a relatively short duration of effect. During sedation, you will be in a deeply relaxed state, but still responsive, and you will feel no discomfort.
IV Conscious Sedation
Dr. Vella and his team are specially trained and licensed in parenteral conscious sedation. They will administer conscious or intravenous (IV) sedation using a combination of medications. IV sedation offers a distinct advantage over oral sedation by giving your dentist the ability to easily adjust the level of medication with almost instantaneous effect.
With sedation dentistry, you will be placed in a completely relaxed state of conscious sedation for your entire dental procedure. You will be awake and able to communicate with the dentist, but you won’t feel any anxiety or discomfort.