Conscious sedation dentistry is a procedure that is routinely used before varying treatments to help those who experience extreme dental stress and anxiety. A low-to-moderate amount of sedation is generally used, which allows the patient to remain conscious but more relaxed over the course of their treatment. While sedated, the patient experiences feelings of calmness, short-term forgetfulness, and an insensitivity to pain.
 
This process is also referred to as “sleep dentistry” or “twilight sleep” and is a great option for those who experience high levels of anxiety, fear, or sensitivity when it comes to visiting the dentist.

Your dentist will control the amount of sedation given to you throughout your procedure to ensure that it lasts for the entire treatment.
 
Depending on what type of sedation is used and how your body responds, your recovery time will vary. For example, people who have nitrous oxide (also known as ‘laughing gas’) recover within 15 to 30 minutes following their appointment and are usually safe to drive themselves home and return to their normal activities immediately. In contrast, those who choose oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, may feel groggy for up to 24 following treatment and will need to organize a ride home after their procedure. It’s also recommended that they don’t return to work or school for at least a full day.

Sedation affects each person differently based on what drug is administered and how their body processes that specific medication.
 
However, most people report feeling drowsiness, heaviness, and relaxation, with negative emotions such as stress and anxiety gradually disappearing as the sedative works its magic. Patients may also feel a tingling sensation throughout their bodies, especially in their arms, hands, legs, and feet.
 
Over the course of sedation, reflexes often become delayed and response times typically slow. This is completely normal and will resolve once the sedative is cleared from the body. 

The sedative administered during conscious sedation dentistry will vary depending on your health history, level of anxiety, the type and length of the procedure, and your personal preferences.
 
The most common types of sedation used are: 
 
Nitrous oxide: More commonly known as “laughing gas”, this is the most common drug used in sedation dentistry. This sedative is inhaled via a mask or nosepiece and is extremely fast-acting, becoming effective within 3-5 minutes of inhalation. Once your treatment is complete, your dentist will give you pure oxygen to funnel the nitrous oxide out of your system. 

Oral conscious sedation: This sedative comes in pill form and is typically administered to you in the hour leading up to your appointment. The most common types of oral sedatives are lorazepam, triazolam, zaleplon, and midazolam oral syrup.

Intravenous (IV) sedation: This is the most intense form of conscious sedation, with your dental provider inserting an IV so that sedative medications can be pumped directly into your bloodstream. Your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be monitored over the course of treatment.
 
Your dentist will review your sedation options before the treatment process and will guide you toward the one that is best suited for your unique needs.
 
At Modern Family Dentistry, we understand the dentist’s chair can be a stressful and anxiety-provoking place for many. While we make it our top priority to deliver safe, comfortable, and professional care, we also provide sedation dentistry for those that need a little extra help getting through their dental procedure. If you have questions about or would like to talk to one of our knowledgeable staff about whether it’s an option for you, contact us today. We are located at 7 Baynard Park Suite A, Newnan, GA 30265. We serve patients from Newnan GA, White Oak GA, Raymond GA, Arnco Mills GA, Sargent GA, Madras GA, Yates GA, and surrounding areas.