Sedation Dentistry

Conscious Sedation | Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen (Laughing Gas)

We make every effort to make your visits as comfortable and as pleasant as possible. Unless you have special needs, local anesthetic will be used for your dental treatments.

Please consult with us to discuss which type(s) of anesthesia/sedation are best suited for your individual dental treatment(s) and which are currently offered in our practice.

Anesthetics & Sedation most commonly used in a dental practice:

Topical Anesthetic:
A gel, liquid, or spray placed on the gingiva (gums) that superficially "numbs" the area where it is applied. Numbness sensations are diminished within a period of 15-30 minutes. This type of anesthetic does NOT numb the teeth.
Local Anesthetic:
Sometimes referred to as "Novocain/Novacaine" This is the most common form of anesthetic and it is usually used in conjunction with topical anesthetic. Local anesthetics come in a variety of durations: short-acting (one hour), long acting (three hour), or extra long-acting (up to six hours). There are virtually no side effects.
Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Sedation:
Commonly known as "laughing gas," nitrous oxide provides a feeling of relaxation during treatment with no lasting side-effects. It is administered via a nose piece and is used as necessary to reduce anxiety, apprehension, or discomfort. It can also help reduce sensitivity and a strong gag reflex.
Sedatives/ Conscious Oral Sedation:
Commonly known as "Sleep Dentistry", Conscious Sedation usually involves taking an oral sedative before your dental appointment, putting the patient in a very relaxed state. Those under conscious sedation typically do not feel anxiety or pain and they rarely have any memory of the dental procedure that was performed. With this type of sedation, the patient does NOT need to use a breathing apparatus as with unconscious sedation. Patients are to have someone drive them to and from their appointment.

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Conscious Sedation

Conscious Sedation, also known as "Sleep Dentistry" or "Oral Sedation" may be the answer for many patients who feel anxiety or nervousness at the thought of having dental treatment done. Imagine not having to worry about that feeling and getting your treatment done in as little as one visit while you are sedated! Now you can "Sleep" thru your dental appointments in comfort!

Those who undergo conscious sedation typically do not feel anxiety or pain, and they rarely have any memory of the actual dental procedure. This type of sedation is generally appropriate for all but the most intensive oral surgeries.

Give us a call to learn more about Sedation Dentistry options available at our practice. We want to make your dental treatments as pleasant as possible!

You are a Candidate for Conscious Sedation If You:

Are anxious or highly fearful about dental treatment
Have difficulty getting numb
Hate needles/shots
Have very sensitive teeth or gums
Have a bad gag reflex
Hate smells, tastes, and noises associated with dental care
Need long or multiple dental appointments/treatments
Have complex dental conditions
Have had traumatic dental experiences
Have put off dental treatment for a long time
Are embarrassed about your teeth
Have limited time to complete your dental care

How is Conscious Sedation Administered?

You will be given an oral sedative (pill) to be taken one hour before your dental visit that will make you feel very relaxed. You will be completely comfortable and anxiety free during your appointment and you will wake up refreshed with little or no memory of the treatment that was performed.

One of our staff members will be at your side during your entire treatment to ensure your comfort and safety. You will never be left alone. Your vital signs will be monitored throughout your visit.

What Type of Dental Treatment Can Be Accomplished While Sedated?

Because you will be completely comfortable, we can accomplish quite a bit during a single dental appointment. We can do a full mouth reconstruction or a single procedure such as crowns, veneers, fillings, tooth whitening, dentures, extractions, implants, deep cleanings, etc.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Since the sedative medication is taken at home, it is VERY IMPORTANT that the patient be accompanied by an adult who will drive them to and from the dental office and care for them after treatment. The patient must not operate a motor vehicle in the next 24 hours following Sedation Dentistry.

Sedation Dentistry can change your Smile....and your Life!

Give us a call to schedule your Sedation Dentistry appointment today!

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What is Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen?

Also known as "Laughing Gas", Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide that can be used to help a patient before and during dental treatment. The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes the use of Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen as a very safe and effective technique for dental treatment.

When can Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen be used?

To reduce anxiety, apprehension, and discomfort
To help patients relax
To reduce sensitivity
To reduce a strong gag reflex

How is Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen administered?

Nitrous oxide/oxygen is given through a small breathing mask which is placed over the patient's nose, allowing the patient to relax, but without putting them to sleep. The gas is mild, odorless and easily taken. While inhaling nitrous oxide/oxygen, the patient remains fully conscious and keeps all natural reflexes. With normal breathing, it is quickly eliminated from the body, leaving no lasting side-effects. It is non-addictive and when dental treatment is completed, the patient can resume normal activity.

Prior to your appointment:

Let us know if you're taking any medication on the day of your dental appointment
Always inform us of any change to your health and/or medical condition.

Dr. Bernath will evaluate if you can benefit from Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen for your dental treatments. Please let us know if you have any questions. We want your dental experiences to be as comfortable as possible.

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Desert Mountain Dentistry
4365 E Pecos Road Suite # 132
Gilbert, AZ 85295

Tel: 480-988-5700
Fax: 480-988-5715