If you are like many, then you may get nervous about going to the dentist. Even a checkup or cleaning can seem like a big deal, but there is a way you can ease your anxiety. Sedation dentistry is a great option, as it’s designed to help you relax. However, there are a couple of different choices you can pick, such as laughing gas or oral conscious sedation. But which is better? Here’s a guide on what you should know.
What Can Laughing Gas Do for Me?
You might’ve heard of laughing gas before, as it’s commonly used for kids and adults alike. It’s a gas you breathe in that’s a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen. After just a few minutes of inhaling it, you will start to feel its effects. Many patients say they feel lighter or euphoric, but that it also has a faintly sweet smell.
This dental sedation is the mildest of the two, meaning that it’s often good for minor treatments, such as a cleaning. It also doesn’t have any lingering effects once it clears your system, which can take several minutes after you stop breathing it in. That way, you are able to drive yourself home or go about your day right after.
How Is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a medication that you will be prescribed before your appointment. It’s typically a pill you swallow about an hour before your visit, and it takes about 15 minutes to kick in. This type of sedation is much stronger, so you’ll have a much deeper relaxing effect. In fact, you might doze off on your own, but it won’t make you fall asleep.
This makes this route a better choice for in-depth and longer procedures. They will go much smoother and help you get the stronger smile you deserve. Since it’s more potent, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment, since it will take hours to clear your system. Be sure to make travel arrangements so you stay safe.
So, Which Type of Sedation Should I Get?
In the end, the type of sedation you should get largely depends on how anxious you are and what treatment you are getting. Laughing gas can be a great choice if you just need a filling or checkup, while oral conscious sedation may be right if you need something like a root canal. Regardless, your dentist is here to help you decide. They will weigh out the pros and cons of what you need and get you toward a confident decision.
About the Practice
At Wolfe Dental Hillsboro, you benefit from a compassionate team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We understand how some people in the local community might be afraid of getting the dental treatments they need, so we are proud to offer sedation dentistry to help you relax. By pairing you with the right choice, you can get a step toward a more comfortable visit. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at (503) 844-6550.