We pride ourselves in making a peaceful environment and ensuring patient comfort is a top priority. However, some individuals may opt to have periodontal procedures performed with use of sedation to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Sedation may be a good option for individuals whom are nervous about treatment, have had bad experiences in the past, or those whom are medically compromised as sedation may prevent medical problems. There are various forms of sedation and you can talk with us about which option is best for you. Options include:
- Inhalation sedation (Nitrous) – This option is simply nitrous oxide or laughing gas. It may be used for simple procedures and allows the patient to leave the office without any lingering effects.
- Oral sedation – This option works very well for most individuals. It usually includes taking a prescription that calms your nerves and may make some people fall asleep. The medication is given to the patient in the office. Please arrange to arrive at the office one hour before your appointment to allow time for the medication to have the desired effect. Patients taking oral sedation should have a driver to and from the appointment, as their senses will be impaired. Patients taking oral sedatives should not eat the meal before their appointment.
- Intravenous (IV) sedation – This option involves an IV line being placed allowing medications to be administered through the line providing a calming effect. Patients having IV sedation should have a driver to and from the appointment, as their senses will be impaired. Patients having sedation should not eat the meal before their appointment.