What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation refers to a variety of techniques used to make patients more comfortable during dental procedures. Our dentists can help determine if a dental sedation option is right for you.
At Crawford Dental Clinic, we do everything we can to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental appointments. In addition to offering sedation options, we will work at your pace, take breaks when you need them, and provide calm reassurance as needed.
Many patients benefit from dental sedation including those with fear or anxiety, have a hard time sitting still for long periods of time, and those who have a hard time getting, and staying, numb from anesthetics.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is inhaled through the mouth and nose. The medication calms patients even though they remain awake and able to communicate. It also tends to lessen anxiety, increase pain threshold, reduce gag reflex and make time pass more quickly.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedatives are pills or liquids prescribed by your dentist. The medication is taken orally in advance of a dental appointment. It leaves you awake for the procedure, but produces a calming effect to significantly relax you.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is a controlled state of unconsciousness that eliminates awareness, movement, and discomfort during dental treatment.
The dentists at Crawford Dental Clinic may see children and those with special needs for dental treatment under general anesthesia at Taber Hospital.