What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation is a medical procedure involving the administration of sedative drugs, generally to facilitate a medical procedure with local anesthesia. Sedation is not the same as anesthesia, in that the patient remains conscious, although unperturbed during the procedure. There is very little memory, if any, of the procedures. The risks and side-effects of sedation are very low compared to general anesthesia.

Uses in Dentistry

Sedation is typically used in our NJ dental office for complex reconstructive procedures, some cosmetic procedures, or for high-anxiety patients. Sedation methods in dentistry include inhalation sedation ( using nitrous oxide ) and oral sedation.

What is it Like?

Sedation is not being put to sleep, but rather being put into a state of deep relaxation with a feeling of not being bothered by what’s going on. You remain conscious during sedation, and can understand and respond to requests, such as open and close your mouth when we need your help. You will have very little recollection of your treatment !

The drugs used for sedation often produce either partial or full memory loss (amnesia) for the period of time when the drug is in effect. As a result, time will appear to pass very quickly and you will have very little, if any, memory of the sights, smells or sounds of your visit. Afterward, it may seem as if you were “asleep” during the procedure.

When your treatment is complete you will be a bit wobbly, and so you will need to arrange for a companion to take you home and stay with you for a few hours until you’re recovered. No effects of the sedation are felt the next day.

Types of Sedation We Use

Our sedation dentistry office in NJ uses Nitrous Oxide Sedation and Oral Sedation. We may use a combination of both when needed. We work closely with a Board Certified Anesthesiologist to help you with your sedation needs.