Reviewed By Dr. Robert Barron, DMD
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Sedation can make dental treatment easier, especially if you are feeling anxious or planning a more involved procedure.
At Concord Oral Surgery, we offer several types of sedation, each with its own benefits depending on your comfort level, health, and treatment plan.
This blog outlines the options available and helps you understand which one might be the right fit for your visit.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Nitrous oxide provides mild sedation with fast recovery, ideal for easing anxiety during simple procedures. IV sedation offers moderate to deep sedation, allowing you to remain relaxed and unaware throughout more involved treatments. General anesthesia provides unconscious sedation for complex or lengthy procedures, ensuring complete comfort from start to finish.
Anesthesia Options At Concord Oral Surgery
Concord Oral Surgery offers several anesthesia options to match your comfort level and the complexity of your procedure. These include nitrous oxide, intravenous (IV) anesthesia, and general anesthesia. Each option is carefully selected based on your needs, health history, and treatment plan.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild form of anesthesia that helps you feel calm and relaxed during treatment. You inhale the nitrous oxide gas through a mask during the dental procedure. It takes effect quickly and wears off within minutes after the mask is removed. Most patients can return to regular activities soon after.
IV Sedation (Twilight Sedation)
IV sedation is administered through a vein to provide a deeper level of relaxation. Due to celebrity when administering sedation, it is possible for you may remain conscious but feel drowsy and unaware of the procedure, or to be asleep. This option is ideal for patients with moderate to high anxiety or for more involved treatments. You will need someone to drive you home after your appointment.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is used for longer procedures or when a deeper level of unconsciousness is required. It allows you to remain completely asleep and unaware during treatment. General anesthesia is administered in our office by an anesthesiologist.
Which Type is Best For You?
Several factors help determine which type of anesthesia is appropriate for your procedure:
- Anxiety level: Nitrous oxide may be enough for mild anxiety, while IV or general anesthesia is better suited for more severe anxiety.
- Type of procedure: Routine extractions may require only light anesthesia, while surgical treatments often need deeper anesthesia.
- Health history: Conditions such as heart or lung issues, as well as any medications you take, can influence which option is safest.
Dr. Robert Barron and our team will guide you through your options to help you feel confident and well-prepared.
Is Sedation Dentistry Covered by Insurance?
Coverage for dental anesthesia can vary depending on your insurance provider, the type of anesthesia used, and the nature of the procedure. Some private plans may offer partial coverage for nitrous oxide or IV anesthesia if considered medically necessary.
In certain cases, general anesthesia may be eligible for OHIP coverage when the procedure is performed in a hospital setting, but this is not guaranteed and depends on multiple factors.
We will review your insurance information during your consultation and provide a detailed estimate. If needed, our team can help clarify what may be eligible for coverage and assist with any paperwork.
Schedule Your Sedation Consultation Today
Whether you need mild sedation for a simple procedure or deep sedation for complex oral surgery, Concord Oral Surgery offers safe and comfortable sedation dentistry options. Our team will help you choose the right type of sedation based on your level of anxiety, health history, and procedure needs.
If you would like to learn more or schedule a consultation, visit our oral surgery office in Vaughan, ON, or call (905) 669-2616. We are located at 3300 Highway 7 West, Suite 805 Vaughan, ON.
FAQs About Sedation Dental Options
Can you drive after laughing gas?
Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, and most people feel back to normal within minutes after the mask is removed. In many cases, patients can drive themselves home. However, we recommend planning for a ride just in case you feel lightheaded or need extra time to recover. We will assess how you’re feeling before the appointment ends.
Does laughing gas make you laugh?
The term “laughing gas” is a nickname. Nitrous oxide does not usually make you laugh uncontrollably. It produces calming effects, reduces feelings of anxiety, and may cause a sense of light euphoria or relaxation. Some patients might smile or giggle, but the main benefit is helping you feel more comfortable during the procedure.
How long does laughing gas take to wear off?
The effects of nitrous oxide typically wear off within 5 to 10 minutes after the mask is removed and you receive a few minutes of oxygen. You should feel back to normal shortly after. There is no lingering grogginess, so you can return to everyday activities, including driving, unless otherwise advised by your health care provider.
