The Forte Implant Center offers three types of sedation for dental implants:
Nitrous Oxide Sedation – Most people know this as “nitrous” or “laughing gas,” and patients breathe it through their noses. It has a quick on-set of action and provides a mild sedative. The sedation stops when the gas stops. You will be able to drive home and go about your day normally. The effect of nitrous oxide, however, can vary greatly from patient to patient. It can significantly affect some while others are not affected at all.
Oral/Enteral Sedation – Oral medication is given with or without nitrous oxide. It is one of the most common and safe sedatives. You will maintain your breathing reflexes and most patients do not remember the dental visit. The sedation effects of this sedative vary between patients. You cannot drive or make any significant decisions on the day of sedation. You may not remember the visit or anything you have said or done that day. You will need to have a responsible adult take you home and stay with you until the sedative has worn off, usually sometime during the evening of the appointment.
Intravenous Sedation – Intravenous sedation, received via I.V., is defined as conscious sedation. You are at a much deeper sedation than oral sedation, but you still maintain your breathing reflexes. This type of sedation is usually used in longer procedures. You will need to have someone take you home and stay with you until the effects of the sedation have worn off, usually sometime during the evening of the appointment. You will not be functional that day, so you may not drive or conduct any type of business.