La
Plata
Many people experience dental anxiety, which can stop them from getting the care they deserve. If this is true for you, then you might wonder how you can make your visit easier. Thankfully, dentists offer multiple sedation types to help their patients relax, such as nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. However, which one is right for you? Keep reading to learn more about them and how you can decide which to pick.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
If this option doesn’t sound familiar to you, then you might’ve heard it by its more common name of “laughing gas.” It’s administered through a mask that will be placed over your nose. What you’ll breathe in is a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen. After a few minutes, you’ll start to feel its effects.
Patients often say they feel relaxed and euphoric, which can helps them stay calm during their visit. You’ll still be completely conscious, but you might fall asleep from how calm you feel. Compared to other sedation options, this one is the mildest. When your dentist removes the mask, it only takes several minutes for you to feel back to normal. You aren’t likely to experience any negative effects afterward as well.
Since it takes a short while to kick in and go away, it’s often perfect for cleanings and minor treatments. You’ll be able to get back to your day without much of a hiccup at all!
When Is Oral Conscious Sedation Used?
Instead of a gas, oral conscious sedation is a medication. You’ll take this prescribed pill before your appointment, typically about an hour in advance. After about 15 minutes, the effects will kick in and give you a stronger, more relaxing feeling than nitrous oxide. You might feel so calm that you’ll doze off while getting your treatment!
That being said, you’ll still be conscious. Your dentist will be able to wake you up with a soft nudge, and you can answer their questions or follow simple instructions. However, the effects of oral conscious sedation are much stronger, so you may not remember your appointment as well. It typically lasts about four to six hours, but it may take a full day to not feel it at all anymore.
Because this option can last longer, it’s often recommended for lengthier or complex treatments. Since you would’ve already taken the medication, you will need someone to drive you to and from your visit.
So, Which Option Is Best for Me?
In the end, the best way to know whether to choose nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation is by talking with your dentist. They will get to know you, your anxiety level, and the type of treatment you’re getting to help you learn which option is best. That way, you feel your best and stay comfortable every step of the way.
About the Practice
At La Plata Dental, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Mark Hochman and Dr. Andrew Betaharon. We know how some patients are scared of the dentist, so our goal is to make your visit as easy as possible. With conscious sedation, state-of-the-art technology, and a friendly team, you enjoy quick and effective treatments without much worry. If you want to know whether nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation is best for you, schedule an appointment or call our office at (240) 349-2439.