Sedation Options
Going to the dentist can be stressful for both adults and children, especially if significant treatments are needed. The PureSmile team is dedicated to making your next visit as pleasant as possible. We offer nitrous oxide and general anesthesia as sedation options for both adult and pediatric dentistry procedures.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a gas that is mixed with oxygen and administered through a mask that fits over the patient’s nose. It helps patients relax while not rendering them unconscious. Instead, the patient is still able to hear and respond to the dentist and others around them. Nitrous oxide is a great choice if you need help relaxing, but want to stay awake.
When is nitrous oxide useful?
- When the patient is very young.
- When an adult or child is anxious or fearful about a dental procedure.
- When extensive work is needed that may be painful.
General Anesthesia
When significant dental treatment is needed, such as multiple fillings or crowns, general anesthesia may be recommended. Considered safe for adults and children, general anesthesia ensures the patient is completely comfortable. It eliminates the patient’s awareness and ability to move.
PureSmile provides a controlled environment with trained dentists who have many years of experience administering general anesthesia.
When is general anesthesia recommended?
- When a patient needs significant dental work that could be painful or lengthy.
- If a patient is overly anxious.
- When a child has difficulty sitting for a long procedure.
- When a patient has other health needs that must be considered.
Talk to the PureSmile team about your concerns and what sedation option is best. You can find more information about sedation in pediatric dentistry in our Parent’s Guide to General Anesthesia and Nitrous Oxide: Is It Safe in Pediatric Dentistry article.
