Dental anxiety is more common than many people realise, and it can lead to delayed or avoided treatment. The problem is that dental conditions do not resolve on their own and can worsen over time, causing pain, infection, or other complications.

Sedation is one way to help patients feel more comfortable during treatment. Two of the most common options are inhalation sedation and oral sedation. Here is how they compare.

Inhalation Sedation

Inhalation sedation delivers a relaxing agent (nitrous oxide) through a nose mask. It is also known as conscious sedation, happy gas, or laughing gas.

The flow of gas can be adjusted throughout the procedure to match the patient's anxiety levels and the requirements of the treatment. It produces a minimal level of sedation, meaning you will feel relaxed and drowsy but remain conscious. You will likely remember the details of the procedure.

Key advantages:

• The level of sedation can be controlled in real time
• Effects wear off quickly
• You can generally drive yourself home afterwards
• It is typically more affordable than oral sedation

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is taken in pill or liquid syrup form. A dose may be required the night before, with another taken about an hour before treatment. Common medications include diazepam (Valium) and triazolam (Halcion). For children, the syrup form is typically used.

Depending on the dose, oral sedation produces a minimal to moderate level of sedation. You may feel drowsy enough to fall asleep, but can be easily woken. Dosage is calculated based on the patient's age and weight.

Key advantages:

• The syrup form is well suited to children, avoiding the need for a nose mask
• It is administered as a single dose, making it straightforward
• It is effective for patients who need a moderate level of sedation

For moderate sedation, the patient's vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure in accordance with Dental Association guidelines.

Research and Effectiveness

Several studies have examined the effectiveness of both sedation methods, particularly in children.

A UK-based study tested oral sedation in over 500 child patients across more than two years and found it to be a safe and effective method for dental procedures. It also helped reduce the number of cases requiring general anaesthesia.

Another study examined inhalation sedation across 472 child patients and 1,317 procedures. Results showed that inhalation sedation can be used effectively to deliver high-quality dental care, with similar studies reporting success rates of up to 93%.

Other Sedation Options

In some cases, the extent of the treatment or the level of anxiety may require general anaesthesia. This must be administered and monitored by a trained anaesthetist. General anaesthesia is more expensive than other sedation methods and is not available at all dental clinics. At The Point Dental, general anaesthesia is available in-house for patients who need it.

Your Next Step

If dental anxiety has been preventing you from seeking treatment, sedation may help. Contact The Point Dental to book a consultation. We can discuss the sedation options available and find the right approach for you.