Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people avoid the dentist — but it doesn’t have to stand between you and the care you need. At West Veranda Dental Care, we offer several sedation dentistry options to help you relax and feel comfortable during your dental treatment.

Whether you have a mild case of nerves or severe dental phobia, we have a sedation solution that can make your visit stress-free and pleasant.

OUR SEDATION OPTIONS

We offer multiple levels of sedation to match your needs:

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) — A mild sedative inhaled through a small mask. You remain conscious but deeply relaxed. Effects wear off quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home afterward.
• Oral Sedation — A prescription medication taken before your appointment that produces a deeper state of relaxation. You may feel drowsy and have little memory of the procedure.
• IV Sedation — Administered intravenously for the deepest level of conscious sedation. You remain responsive but deeply relaxed throughout the procedure.

WHO BENEFITS FROM SEDATION DENTISTRY?

Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia, have a strong gag reflex, have difficulty getting numb from local anesthesia, need multiple or complex procedures in one visit, have sensitive teeth, or have special needs that make it difficult to sit still for extended periods.

IS SEDATION DENTISTRY SAFE?

Yes, when administered by trained dental professionals, sedation dentistry is very safe. We carefully review your medical history, current medications, and overall health before recommending any sedation option. Your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure. Our team is fully trained and certified in sedation techniques.

PREPARING FOR YOUR SEDATION APPOINTMENT

Preparation for your sedation appointment will depend on the type of sedation used. For oral and IV sedation, you will typically need to fast for several hours beforehand and arrange for someone to drive you to and from the appointment. We will provide you with complete pre- and post-operative instructions tailored to your sedation type.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will I be unconscious during sedation dentistry?

No — sedation dentistry keeps you in a conscious but deeply relaxed state. You will still be able to respond to our team, but you will feel calm and comfortable throughout the procedure.

Will I remember the procedure?

With oral or IV sedation, you may have little to no memory of the procedure, which many patients find very reassuring.

How long does sedation last?

Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes. Oral and IV sedation can make you drowsy for several hours after your appointment, which is why you will need a driver.