Sedation

Sedation Options

 

To help ensure a comfortable and relaxed experience, we offer sedation options for most surgical procedures and some scaling and root planing treatments.

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The most commonly used option is oral sedation, typically with a small dose of Triazolam (Halcion) taken about one hour prior to your appointment. This helps reduce anxiety and allows most patients to feel calm and at ease throughout the procedure. If needed, an additional dose may be provided once you arrive, under the supervision of Dr. Du.

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Many patients find that with oral sedation, the procedure feels much shorter and more comfortable. Relaxed jaw muscles also make it easier to tolerate longer appointments without discomfort.

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Because of the effects of sedation, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment, and you should plan to rest afterward.

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Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is also available as an alternative for patients who prefer a lighter form of sedation. In all cases, local anesthesia is used to fully numb the treatment area, and a topical gel is applied beforehand to make the injection more comfortable.