Several medications are available to help create more relaxed, comfortable dental visits.

Some drugs control pain, some help you relax, and others put you into a deep sleep during dental treatment.

The type of procedure, your overall health, history of allergies and your anxiety level are considered when determining which approach is best for your particular case.

Sedatives can be administered before or during dental procedures. Sedation methods include inhalation (using nitrous oxide), oral (by taking a pill) and intravenous (by injection).
We offer inhalation sedation (more commonly known as laughing gas or nitrous oxide) as well as oral sedation (usually diazepam or valium).

Ask our staff if you would like to know more about dental sedation.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am really nervous about my dental procedure, what are the options for sedation?
We recommend talking to your dentist about your concerns so that they can assess what would be appropriate for you. At A to Z Dental, we offer laughing gas and oral sedation (tablets).

Is laughing gas safe?
Yes, it is completely safe and there are no permanent effects on your body at all.

Is laughing gas for everyone?
It is safe for all ages; however, there are some conditions which can cause problems. The most common issue is when the patient has difficulty inhaling the gas through the nose. The dentist will talk through alternatives if this affects you.

How much does laughing gas cost?
The cost varies depending on how long the procedure takes, but it costs roughly $65 per half hour. This can be covered in part by your private health fund.

Is it safe for kids?
Absolutely, as long as they are old enough to communicate with us and understand what's happening.

Is oral sedation better, or gas?
Gas is appropriate for most cases. Every patient and every procedure requires assessment by the dentist as to what is appropriate.

Can I drive myself home?
Yes, the sedation is flushed out your system at the end of the procedure and recovery is rapid. If you are feeling light headed you can stay at our clinic until you feel well enough to drive.
With oral sedation, someone else must take you home and keep an eye on you for 6 - 12 hours.

Do I need to see the dentist for an appointment before I request the sedation?
It is always better to have a consultation with the dentist so that we can assess if you are an ideal candidate for sedation and whether it is necessary.
If you are having a procedure done and you would like sedation part way through, we are able to administer inhalation sedation but unable to administer oral sedation.

What type of procedures can sedation be used for?
Most procedures can be performed with sedation.

What if it doesn’t work?
We will monitor the dosage closely, although only 5% of patients feel they do not have any effect.

Will I be completely out of it?
No, you will be responsive throughout the whole procedure. You will be able to tell us if you feel there is something wrong; however, you may not remember the procedure afterwards. Laughing gas has a mild amnesia effect.