Choose the Level of Relaxation That Fits You
Tooth color changes for many reasons, and knowing the cause helps us recommend the right treatment. Some stains sit on the surface of the tooth, while others develop deeper inside the enamel. The most common causes include the following.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas, is a safe and effective way to relax during treatment. It is breathed in through a small mask that fits over your nose and is mixed with oxygen, so you breathe normally. Within minutes, you should begin to feel calm. Some patients feel lightheaded, or notice a tingling or a heavy feeling in their arms and legs. The effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed.
Conscious Oral Sedation
Conscious oral sedation is a minimal sedation option that allows you to stay awake but deeply relaxed. It is often a good fit for people who fear dental procedures, since it can take away much of the anxiety. We combine it with local anesthetic so you have little to no discomfort. You should plan to have someone bring you to your appointment and drive you home afterward.
IV Sedation
IV sedation, also called general anesthesia, uses medication to allow you to sleep during treatment. It may benefit patients having surgical procedures, patients with high levels of anxiety, and patients with special needs. We will discuss the benefits with you and help you decide whether it is the best choice.
Signs Dental Anxiety May Be Holding You Back
Many patients tell us they put off care for years because of fear. If you recognize yourself here, you are not alone, and sedation may help. These are common signs that anxiety is getting in the way.
- You avoid or cancel dental appointments because you feel nervous
- You lose sleep or feel panicky in the days before a visit
- You have a strong gag reflex or feel claustrophobic in the chair
- You are afraid of needles, sounds, or the feeling of being numb
- You had a difficult dental experience in the past
- You have delayed treatment until pain forced you to come in
- You find it hard to sit still for long appointments
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation does more than make an appointment pleasant. It can help you get the care you need, which supports your long term health. Patients often notice these benefits.
- Less anxiety. You feel calm and at ease, even if you are normally nervous.
- More comfort. Sedation works together with local anesthetic to keep you comfortable.
- Easier appointments. A relaxed patient can sit more comfortably through longer treatments.
- Help with gagging and sensitivity. Many patients find a strong gag reflex is easier to manage when sedated.
- More done in fewer visits. Some treatments can be combined into a single appointment.
- Support for special needs. Sedation can help patients who have difficulty staying still or cooperating.
- Better oral health over time. When fear no longer keeps you away, you can stay on top of prevention and treatment.
From Your First Conversation to a Calm, Comfortable Visit
Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety before it starts. We take sedation seriously and plan each step carefully. Here is how it works.
01
A Conversation About Your Concerns
We listen to your fears and past experiences and explain your options in plain language.
02
A Health Review
We review your medical history, medications, and allergies, and recommend the option that is safest and most comfortable for you.
03
Before Your Visit
We give you clear instructions for your appointment, including guidance on eating, drinking, and medications. If you will have oral or IV sedation, we ask you to arrange a ride home.
04
Getting Comfortable
When you arrive, we help you settle in, and your sedation begins. With nitrous oxide, you will notice the effects within minutes.
05
Your Treatment
Local anesthetic is used along with sedation, so you stay comfortable while we complete your care. Our team monitors you throughout the visit.
06
Recovery and Aftercare
We make sure you are comfortable before you leave, and we give you instructions for the rest of the day. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, while oral and IV sedation need a longer recovery.
Everyday Visits and Larger Procedures Made Easier
Sedation can be used for many types of care, from routine visits to surgical procedures. Talk with our team about which treatments you would like to have sedation for. Patients often ask about it for the following services.
- Tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal
- Root canal therapy
- Dental crowns and composite fillings
- Periodontal treatment such as scaling and root planing
- Cleanings and exams for patients who feel anxious about routine visits
- Implant restoration appointments
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation can help many patients, but the right option depends on your health and your needs. We always review your health history before recommending anything. You may be a good candidate if any of these situations apply to you.
- You have dental anxiety or a fear of dental treatment
- You have a strong gag reflex
- You need a long or complex procedure
- You need several treatments and want to complete them in fewer visits
- You are having surgical treatment such as an extraction
- You have special needs and find dental care difficult
- You have difficulty getting numb or staying still
Please tell us about your medications, allergies, and any medical conditions, since these affect which options are safe for you. We will talk through every question before treatment.
Take the Fear Out of Your Next Dental Visit
You should not have to put your health on hold because of anxiety. Sedation can help you relax, get the care you need, and feel good about your smile again. Our team at Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH is ready to listen and help you find the option that suits you. Schedule your comfort consultation today.
Book Your Comfort ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax during dental treatment. It is often used for patients with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or long and complex procedures. Options range from nitrous oxide, which wears off quickly, to oral sedation and IV sedation. Our team will help you decide which option fits your needs and your health.
We offer nitrous oxide, conscious oral sedation, and IV sedation. Nitrous oxide helps you feel relaxed while you stay awake. Conscious oral sedation keeps you awake but deeply relaxed, and IV sedation allows you to sleep during treatment. We will talk with you about the right option based on your anxiety, your treatment, and your medical history.
Sedation is safe for most patients when it is chosen carefully and given with proper monitoring. We review your health history, medications, and allergies before recommending an option, and our team monitors you during treatment. Some medical conditions may limit which options are appropriate, so it is important to share your full history. If sedation is not right for you, we will explain why and suggest alternatives.
It depends on the type of sedation. With nitrous oxide and conscious oral sedation, you stay awake but feel relaxed and calm. IV sedation, also called general anesthesia, is the option that allows you to sleep during treatment. We will explain what to expect with each option so you can choose with confidence.
If you have conscious oral sedation or IV sedation, you should plan to have someone bring you to your appointment and drive you home afterward. These medications can cause drowsiness that lasts for some time. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly once the mask is removed, so rides are often not needed, though we will give you specific instructions. Please ask our team when you schedule.
Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and breathed in through a small mask over your nose. Most patients begin to feel relaxed within a few minutes, and they may notice lightheadedness or a tingling or heavy feeling in their arms and legs. Once the mask is removed, the effects wear off quickly. Many patients find it a gentle way to ease anxiety during routine and more involved treatment.
Yes, many patients find sedation helps with both. Feeling relaxed can make it easier to tolerate dental instruments and to stay calm during numbing. We also use gentle techniques and local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Tell our team about your specific fears so we can plan an approach that works for you.
Dental insurance often covers sedation only in limited situations, and coverage varies by plan. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid and are in network with Delta Dental Premier, and we offer financing through Sunbit. Our team will review your benefits and explain your costs before treatment. You can learn more on our Insurance and Financing page.
