We offer three kinds of sedation and will help you choose the one that fits your needs.
Nitrous oxide
Often called laughing gas. It gives mild sedation and relaxation, starts working quickly, and wears off within minutes after the gas is turned off, so you can drive yourself to and from your visit. It works best if you are only a little nervous or mainly anxious about injections.
Oral sedation
A sedative pill taken about 30 to 45 minutes before your appointment. It works well for mild to moderate anxiety. The effect of a set dose is harder to predict and adjust, though nitrous oxide can be added if needed. If oral sedation has worked for you before, please tell us which medicine and dose you took. Someone must drive you to and from the office.
IV sedation
Medicine is given through a vein so you are deeply relaxed and comfortable. This is conscious sedation: you are not technically asleep and can still respond, but most people remember little or nothing of the visit. A common first question afterward is “When are you going to start?”
Local anesthetic is still used, but it is given after you are sedated, so most patients don’t remember getting numb. IV sedation is very safe when given and monitored by a specially trained dentist, and the dose can be adjusted during treatment. Dr. Warren has provided IV sedation since 1988 and was the first endodontist in Utah certified in IV sedation.
Scheduled for IV sedation?
Please read the instructions before your appointment. You will need to stop eating and drinking 6 hours ahead and arrange an adult to drive you home.
Have questions about which option is right for you? Call us. We are happy to talk through your choices.