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3 Sedation Options for a More Relaxing Experience

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An image of a woman under sedation at a dental office.

Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” can be used during any periodontal procedure in healthy patients. Nitrous works to provide anxiolytic (anxiety) and mild analgesic (pain) reduction during dental work by breathing though a mask. Once the work is completed, oxygen flushes out nitrous oxide clear of your system. There are no eating, drinking, or driver requirements. 

Oral conscious sedation

Benzodiazepine medication also known as “oral sedation” is a pill taken in the office 1 hr prior to your appointment to provide anti-anxiety, sedation and amnesia (memory impairment) effects. Patients electing oral sedation are relaxed and may be in and out of sleep during the implant or periodontal procedure. The patient must not eat or drink any fluids for at least 6 hours prior to the appointment.  A driver is required and the patient cannot drive for the remainder of the day.

IV conscious sedation

Benzodiazepine (anti-anxiety) and narcotic (pain reduction) medication can also be delivered intravenously or by “IV”.  Dr. Anderson would administer or “titrate” these medications to provide a moderate conscious sedation where a deeper level of sedation is reached compared to the nitrous oxide and oral sedation.  Patients may not remember their appointment and frequently sleep though the procedure. Benefits of the IV option include narcotic administration for discomfort and immediate access to deepen or lighten the level of sedation experienced. As with oral sedation, IV patients cannot eat or drink for at least 6 hours prior to the appointment and cannot drive that day.

Regardless the sedation method chosen, the patient will always receive local anesthesia or “numbing” for a pain free procedure.  Dr. Anderson’s patients electing oral or IV sedation are monitored with EKG, pulse oximetry, and capnography to ensure you are sedated effectively and safety.  There are some relative and absolute medical contraindications to the sedation methods listed. Discuss your medical history with Dr. Anderson to ensure you are a candidate for sedation and to determine which option is best for you.

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Why Choose Dr. Lauren Anderson for Your Biological Periodontics?

Expertise in Biological Dentistry – Dr. Anderson is trained in Biodentistry 3.0 and certified in Swiss Dental Ceramics, ensuring a holistic and biocompatible approach to periodontal care.

Highest Level of Certification – As a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a Michigan Board-Certified Periodontist, Dr. Anderson has achieved the highest levels of professional accreditation in her field.

Cutting-Edge Techniques & Innovations – With published research and lectures on implant-related soft tissue augmentation, peri-implant disease prevention, and airway-focused periodontics, Dr. Anderson integrates the latest advancements into her patient care.

Multi-Disciplinary & Holistic Approach – Dr. Anderson collaborates with experts across dentistry and medicine to ensure comprehensive, whole-body health solutions for her patients.

Minimally Invasive & Biocompatible Treatments – With specialized training in advanced ceramic implants and biological dentistry techniques, Dr. Anderson prioritizes treatments that support the body’s natural healing processes.

Commitment to Patient-Centered Care – Passionate about education and personalized treatment plans, Dr. Anderson empowers her patients with knowledge and customized solutions for optimal oral and systemic health.

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