Sedation

What is Sedation?

Sedation involves the use of drugs to lessen the pain or awareness associated with potentally painful dental procedures. Sedation includes medications such as valium, nitrous oxide and IV sedation. Some sedation medications are combined with a local anesthetic to minimize pain.

When is sedation used?

Sedation is used for the benefit of the patient and can be administered for most procedures. When a particular procedure is known to likely result in pain Dr. Rassner will recommend the best medication for you. If you are anxious or fearful of the procedures Dr. Rassner will work with you to provide the best level of comfort. Dental procedures do not have to be painful and the Woodlake Dental staff strives to make your dental visits as pain free as possible.

What is involved in Sedation?

Exact procedures will depend on the sedation method. If there are oral medications involved, these medicines will be taken 1 hour prior to the dental procedure. Oral local anesthetics will also be used to further eliminate pain. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, can also be administered to induce a state of relaxation. Full sedation procedures are only done under the direction of a licensed anesthesiologist.