Sedation Dentistry in Eau Claire

At Valley Edge Dental, our Eau Claire dentists offer nitrous oxide, also referred to as laughing gas or minimally inhaled sedation. This is the mildest and safest sedative that a patient can receive and is suitable for patients of all ages. This makes it a sedative of choice for children because it is very low-risk and not invasive. 

Nitrous oxide is administered through a nasal mask. You will inhale the gas, along with oxygen, through your nose. It is important that you don’t have any respiratory issues and that you can breathe through your nose. Within just a couple of minutes, you will begin to feel the effects. 

Patients feel euphoric, relaxed, giddy, and calm when receiving nitrous oxide. This is a conscious form of sedation so patients remain awake and aware of their surroundings. You will be able to respond to instructions or answer questions during the appointment. 

However, you may feel very sleepy. If you do fall asleep, a light shake will easily wake you up. It also does not linger in the body so once the nasal mask is removed, it takes just a couple of minutes to return to normal. You will be able to drive home and return to normal activities since it doesn’t cause lingering hangover effects.‍

‍For patients with moderate dental anxiety or those undergoing longer procedures, we also offer oral conscious sedation. This form of sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment, helping you feel deeply calm and at ease by the time you arrive.

You’ll still remain conscious and able to respond during your visit, but many patients report feeling drowsy, relaxed, and less aware of time passing. Because this medication can take a few hours to wear off, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your visit and plan to rest afterward.