Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is a popular method used to help patients manage anxiety and fear related to dental or medical procedures. It involves the administration of a medication, usually in the form of a pill or liquid, taken orally before the appointment. The goal of oral sedation is to help the patient relax and feel more comfortable during treatment, without the need for more invasive methods like general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The most commonly prescribed medication for oral sedation is a benzodiazepine, such as diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), or triazolam (Halcion). These medications work by depressing the central nervous system, which induces a state of calmness, reduces anxiety, and can even cause mild amnesia, meaning patients may have little to no memory of the procedure afterward. The degree of sedation varies depending on the dosage, with higher doses providing a deeper level of relaxation.
It is also important to listen to your doctors specific instructions and other medications to avoid taking while under oral sedation.
We offer oral sedation for all qualifying patients here at Emerald Coast Periodontics.
Nitros Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas," has been a cornerstone of dental and medical sedation for over a century, offering a safe and effective way to help reduce anxiety and enhance patient comfort during procedures. It is an inhaled gas that patients breathe in through a mask placed over their nose, and it works by quickly entering the bloodstream via the lungs. Once in the bloodstream, nitrous oxide has a calming effect on the central nervous system, creating a sense of relaxation and well-being. It can also produce mild euphoria and, in some cases, induce a sense of lightheadedness or giddiness, which is why it has earned the nickname "laughing gas." However, despite its cheerful moniker, nitrous oxide’s primary function in dental settings is to ease anxiety and provide a mild level of sedation, ensuring that patients remain calm and comfortable throughout their procedures.
We offer nitrous oxide sedation for all qualifying patients here at Emerald Coast Periodontics.
