At Mission Hills Family Dental, we want patients across San Marcos to have access to quality dental care. Unfortunately, we know that dental anxiety prevents many children and adults from getting the regular dental care they need. To help our patients feel more comfortable receiving treatment, we are proud to offer sedation dentistry services.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry enables people with dental anxiety to feel more at ease getting treatment. We offer two forms of sedation dentistry: oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas).

What Is the Difference Between Laughing Gas & Oral Conscious Sedation?

Oral conscious sedation is the stronger option of the two — you’ll be awake during treatment, but you’ll feel very relaxed. All you need to do is take a pill at a prescribed time before your appointment. Because the effects can take a little while to wear off, we do ask that you have someone give you a ride to and from treatment.

Nitrous oxide, a sweet-smelling gas, is another option. You’ll inhale the gas before and during your treatment, leaving you feeling at ease and maybe a little giggly (that’s why it’s called laughing gas!). Like oral conscious sedation, you’ll remain awake during treatment. Because the effects are so short-lived, you will be able to drive yourself home afterward.

Which Option Is Best for Me?

During your consultation with Dr. Miller, we’ll assess your health history and your individual needs and goals to determine which type of sedation dentistry is the better fit. Just about any treatment can be completed with oral conscious sedation or laughing gas. And, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands: our team is highly trained in the use of sedation dentistry, and both options are safe. To ask our team any questions about sedation dentistry or to set up an appointment, call us today!