Sedation Options
No-Fear Sedation Options
There are two types of patients who need sedation for dental care: the Little-Bit Scared, and the REALLY, REALLY Scared! No worries! We have solutions for all of you.
Level I
For the Little-Bit Scared, we have TVs in the ceiling, massage chairs, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas). We use the Wand (we call it the magic wand!) to get you numb. Many people never feel the injection at all.
Local Anesthesia: the (Magic) Wand and Laughing Gas
Let’s face it, one of everyone’s worst fears the “shot.” We get it. At Fetner & Hartigan, while we can’t promise you’ll love getting local anesthesia, we can promise we do everything in our power to make you more comfortable.
First, we use plenty of topical (gel) anesthetic and we wait for it to work. Then, we use the Wand to administer the anesthesia instead of the big, metal syringe.
Local anesthesia has changed significantly since the development of the Wand. We have used this machine exclusively since 2001, and it may be the most important and beneficial device we have ever used to improve the part of dentistry patients complain about most.
The Wand is a computer-assisted machine that administers local anesthesia through a disposable tube and a very small needle. Additionally, it controls the rate of the anesthetic delivery with the purpose of minimizing patient discomfort. Patients often comment after we use the Wand, “What did you just do?” They were not even aware they got a “shot”!
We also have nitrous oxide (laughing gas) available in every room. If you have never tried this, you will be amazed at how effective it is for relaxing you and reducing discomfort. Nitrous oxide is extremely safe and inexpensive, and has no residual effects once the machine is turned off. We have individual masks just for you that fit your nose like a glove. Afterward, you will be perfectly fine to drive home (assuming you have a license, of course!)
Level II
For the Really Scared, we can prescribe an oral medication that is similar to what is given for IV sedation. This may also be combined with the nitrous oxide, if you wish. You will be able to walk and talk, but you probably won’t remember the procedure later. Patients are very relaxed but not unconscious. Most patients describe the experience as “I know where I am but I really don’t care.” Some of our patients even fall asleep during the procedure. You will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. We will prescribe medication that you will take 1 to 2 hours before the visit. You will need to have someone drive you.
