Types of sedation dentistry
For someone who has just a mild anxiety about dental visits, nitrous oxide is generally the best option. Sometimes referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is administered through a nasal mask, and in just a few minutes, patients begin to feel much more relaxed. After the flow of gas is cut off, the effects wear off very quickly and the patient can get back to normal. Oral sedation is recommended for patients who have moderate to severe anxiety about dental procedures.
This type of sedation is generally administered in the form of a pill, and causes the patient to go into a deep state of relaxation. A third form of sedation dentistry is known as The Wand, and this is a computer-controlled process which delivers an injection to the patient, without using any syringes. The Wand is used as an anesthetic to significantly reduce any discomfort that a patient might experience during a complex procedure. Because no syringes are used, patients are much more at ease, and don't feel the dread they might sense when a needle is used.