Sedation Options

Sedation Options in Fresno CA

Dr. Smith realizes that there are many different procedures that require many different levels of sedation. Many patients will use one type of sedation for one procedure and a different type of sedation for another. This is why it is so important to have everything explained during the initial visit. That way we make sure that the patient is properly relaxed and prepared for everything we are doing. Here are the different ways that each type of sedation is administered.

Laughing Gas

This is a mild form of sedation that makes the patient feel as though they had a couple glasses of wine during the procedure. Every one of our operatories is equipped with a simple hookup for nitrous oxide, even the hygiene rooms. The patient merely breathes the gas to get the desired effect. The level of the gas is easily adjusted to make the patient as comfortable as possible. After the procedure, there is no lingering after effect. The patient can even legally drive home, making this a very convenient and popular form of sedation.

Single Pill With Laughing Gas

This is a simple way to allow the patient to get their dental work done in a moderately relaxed state. The patient is given one pill about an hour before the appointment. This will make them mildly relaxed. When they arrive in the office, we will then administer the nitrous oxide. This will get them a little more relaxed. This is a very popular option for cleaning visits or for minor procedures.

IV Sedation With an Anesthesiologist

The patient will usually take a pill about an hour before the procedure to get them into a relaxed state. They come back to the dental chair, and they are greeted by warm blankets. There are many advantages to having an anesthesiologist. Not only are they highly qualified to keep you safe, but they can also choose drugs that will reduce postoperative issues such as nausea and sickness. After your procedure, Dr. Smith will call you to answer any questions and make sure you are doing well.

Northpoint Outpatient Surgery Center

Although Dr. Smith does not use this option often, there have been some patients who require a hospital environment to have their dental work done. Dr. Smith has privileges at the Northpoint Surgery Center for those patients that require general anesthesia for their dental work. Here, they are intubated and put under general anesthesia by an anesthesiologist. Dr. Smith performs the needed dental work right there in the operating room.

In Fresno, there are only a few dentists who are licensed to perform intravenous sedation. The training and licensing required to do IV sedation are extensive, so most dentists who advertise “Sedation Dentistry” are only using a pill to mildly sedate or relax people.