Sedation Dentistry in Huntersville, NC

Many patients know nitrous oxide by its common nickname, “laughing gas.” This sedation option is delivered through a small mask that fits over the nose and is mixed with oxygen, so you can continue breathing normally throughout your visit. Most people begin to notice the effects within just a few minutes, which can include a light-headed feeling or a tingling sensation in the arms and legs. In many cases, patients also describe a sense of heaviness in their limbs. The overall goal is a relaxed, comfortable state during treatment. Once the small mask is removed, the effects of nitrous oxide typically fade quickly. Our doctors can talk with you about whether this form of sedation may be a good fit for your visit.

With IV sedation, sometimes referred to as general anesthesia, medication is used to help you sleep through your dental treatment. This approach may be a good option for patients undergoing surgical procedures, those who experience significant dental anxiety, or patients with special needs. Our doctors are available to walk through the benefits of this option and help determine whether it fits your particular situation.

Oral conscious sedation offers a gentler form of sedation that keeps you awake yet relaxed throughout the appointment. Patients who feel anxious about dental visits may find that this option helps ease some of that worry. It is typically paired with a local anesthetic, so discomfort during treatment can be minimal to none. Because the medication can affect your ability to drive, you will need someone to bring you to your appointment and take you home afterward.