Sedation dentistry aims to transform dental visits by creating an anxiety-free environment. It is also beneficial for patients with special needs or who have dental phobias or fears.

Parents who use sedation for children want to remain with their child during treatment, and 83 percent believe restraint should not be required. Most parents were unaware of media coverage of sedation-related deaths.

Oral Sedatives

Sedatives allow your dentist to complete more extensive dental work in fewer appointments. This is because it reduces your anxiety, making it easier to sit through lengthy procedures and complex treatments. You will also feel more comfortable and be able to follow instructions better. These drugs bind to certain receptors in the brain and decrease activity, helping you relax.

Oral sedation is the most common type of sedation used in sedation dentistry Morgantown. It involves taking a pill before your appointment. You may feel drowsy, but you remain conscious and can respond to questions from the dentist. It can be combined with nitrous oxide for a more relaxed experience.

You can discuss all of your sedation options with the dentist to find the one that best meets your needs. They will consider your dental needs, health history, and level of anxiety to find the perfect solution for you. Nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and intravenous (IV) sedation are all available to help you relax during your next visit.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is one of the most popular forms of sedation dentistry. It is administered through a nasal mask and works quickly to reduce anxiety. It is a safe, reliable option for patients with mild to moderate anxiety, and it can be increased or decreased based on your needs. It is also a great option for short appointments like dental fillings or cleanings.

Nitrous Oxide is a colorless, sweet-smelling gas that is mixed with oxygen in order to control your level of sedation. It is inhaled through a mask over the nose and begins working within three to five minutes. It will allow you to remain awake while feeling relaxed, but you will be able to respond to our sedation dentistry Morgantown questions and instructions. Once your appointment is over we will give you pure oxygen to clear the nitrous oxide from your system, and it will wear off quickly.

For patients who choose this form of sedation, we ask that you arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after your appointment. Because this is a light form of sedation, you should not operate a vehicle after your appointment.

Intravenous Sedatives

For those who suffer from severe anxiety or fear, intravenous sedation is the most effective method. This type of sedation involves medication that is injected into your bloodstream via a thin needle inserted in the inner elbow or top of the hand. This is known as twilight sedation, and it allows patients to relax while undergoing treatment. It is recommended that you have someone drive you to and from your appointment, as this will help ensure your safety and a speedy recovery.

The medications used in this type of sedation are not narcotics, and most have amnesic properties, so you won’t remember your dental procedure. These are commonly benzodiazepines, such as midazolam (Versed) and diazepam (Valium). Ketamine is also frequently used, as it is quick to take effect and doesn’t affect your heart or lungs. The dentist will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to make sure that your medication is safe and working correctly.

Pediatric Sedation

Pediatric sedation is sometimes used for children who have significant anxiety or whose medical conditions make it difficult for them to cooperate during treatment. Sedation can be administered in our dental office, at Riley Children's Hospital or, for more extensive dental procedures or certain diagnostic studies, at Comer Children's.

We will assess your child's medical history, age, the extent of their treatment and their cooperation level before recommending a sedation method. We will also take into account whether they are scheduled for a medical procedure at the same time.

Before your child receives sedation, they will be required to fast for a certain amount of time depending on the type of sedation. We recommend that you bring a snack for them, especially if they are scheduled to receive intravenous sedation. Upon discharge, your child will require a ride home and a responsible adult to care for them until they are fully awake from the sedation.