Does going to the dentist make you nervous, or do you have a physical condition that makes it difficult for you to sit still during dental treatments? You might be thinking about taking advantage of sedation at your next appointment. Still, you may wonder which type of sedation is right for you. In this blog post, we compare two popular options. We will discuss oral sedation vs nitrous oxide sedation. Once you know more about each choice, you will be in a better position to pick the one that best fits your circumstances.
Oral Conscious Sedation
How it works: You take a pill shortly before your treatment. The medication produces a powerful calming effect. You will remain alert enough to answer questions. If you drift off to sleep, it will be easy to awaken you with a gentle shake.
Downtime: How long the pill lasts will depend on the specific type of medication used and how fast your body metabolizes it. For most people, the effects linger long enough that it is not safe to drive for at least a full day following the procedure.
Costs: The cost depends on the specific type of medication used. Your dentist’s team will give you a price estimate when you are discussing your procedure.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
How it works: A colorless gas is administered through a nasal mask. The gas instantly helps you feel calm and relaxed as you breathe it in. Your dentist can adjust your level of sedation throughout your treatment. Nitrous oxide is not as powerful as oral sedation.
Downtime: Nitrous oxide wears off as quickly as it takes effect. It will even be safe for you to drive yourself home after your appointment.
Costs: The cost depends on your dentist’s pricing structure. In general, nitrous oxide costs less than oral sedation.
Which Is Right for You?
Your dentist will help you decide which type of sedation may work best for you.
Oral conscious sedation may be the preferable choice if:
- You are undergoing complex dental treatment, such as wisdom teeth extractions or another type of oral surgery.
- You suffer from severe dental anxiety.
- You do not wish to wear a nasal mask during your procedure.
Nitrous oxide might be the better option if:
- Your dental anxiety is relatively mild.
- You are undergoing a basic or minor procedure, such as a simple filling. You can even request nitrous oxide if you are having a basic cleaning.
- You want to be as alert as possible after your treatment.
Both oral sedation and nitrous oxide are excellent sedation options. Next time you visit the dentist, you can discover which is right for your unique situation.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group has been serving families in local communities for decades. We have an extensive team of dentists at our four locations, all of whom are committed to providing top-quality care to patients. We offer multiple types of sedation, including oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide. To learn more about us and how we can make your dental experience a positive one, contact one of our offices.