Sedation Dentistry

Imagine undergoing a root canal, extraction, or oral surgery and waking up without a memory of the noise, discomfort or pain you expected. Mint Dental proudly offers our patients the option of safe, effective, and comfortable sedation dentistry. You can benefit from this type of procedure if you:

• Have anxiety or fear about being at the dentist
• Cannot sit still for long periods of time
• Have shown prior resistance to getting, and staying numb, through traditional anesthetics

Contact our office to schedule a consultation and find the proper sedation method for you.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry utilizes a variety of techniques to provide comfortable and safe dental treatments for patients with dental anxiety. Dental sedation offers the following benefits:

• You will lose your sense of time while under sedation
• You will not be able to smell or hear the sounds associated with dental work
• You will be free of fear and anxiety
• You will have no memory of undergoing the procedure

Those who have been sedated for dental work in the past will testify to it being a simple and more relaxing way to experience dentistry.

I am nervous about being unconscious. What options are available for me?

At Mint Dental, there is no reason to be nervous. Not only are we always professional and respectful, but we are licensed by the American Dental Association. The law has strict guidelines and regulations regarding sedation dentistry.  There are three sedative states under which we can administer treatment:

• Mild Sedation – This lightest form of sedation is used for patients with mild anxiety and during longer or more complex procedures. This type of sedation is typically given orally. Throughout this state, you remain awake and able to breathe on your own. This state promotes a deep sense of relaxation. Patients usually recover from this type of sedation in a few hours. Nitrous oxide inhalation is an example of a mild to moderate sedation technique. 
• Moderate Sedation — For those undergoing longer or more complicated procedures, or exhibiting moderate dental anxiety, we offer moderate sedation. This type of anesthetic is typically delivered via IV. While you will remain awake, you will be in an even deeper state of relaxation than that exhibited in mild sedation. Because driving may be unsafe, and this sedative may take a few hours to wear off, patients undergoing this type of sedation should have a parent, spouse, or friend accompany them.
• Deep Sedation – The most profound state of dental sedation available, patients undergoing this type of sedation waver between consciousness and unconsciousness during their dental procedure. Patients awaken from this type of sedation with little to no recollection of this treatment. Even when awake, people in this state cannot respond to commands. As driving is unsafe until the sedative wears off, which can take several hours, all patients should bring a parent, friend, or spouse to accompany them.

How are sedatives administered?

Sedatives can be administered in a variety of ways:

• Inhalation: Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is the most common delivery type for easing moderate to mild anxiety.  Recovery time is short. You can resume normal activities immediately after use.
• Oral: This type of sedation avoids the use of needles and can be completed before you ever arrive at our office. You will be given a prescription pill roughly an hour before your treatment. By the time you get here, you will enter a deep state of relaxation.