Minimal Sedation is commonly used in dentistry for people who feel anxious or panicked during dental procedures. It is used to relax the patients and minimize discomfort. It has also been called: happy gas, laughing gas. The delivery method is through inhalation. You'll wear a facial mask to breath in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Nitrous oxide is also a safe drug for toddlers and children.
Sedation can be performed safely and effectively by dentists with proper training and certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Will my medical aid cover the procedure? |
No, pre-approval is needed from your medical aid. Code 8141 Inhalation Sedation 15 minutes or less 8143 Inhalation Sedation per 15 minutes |
| What does minimal sedation feel like? |
Sedation effects differ from person to person. The most common feelings are drowsiness and relaxation. Once the sedative takes effect, Negative emotions, stress, or anxiety may also gradually disappear. You may feel like the world around you has slowed down. You can still respond or react to conversation or physical stimuli. You may even start laughing or smiling without cause. All protective reflexes, like swallowing, remains intact. |
| What drugs are used? |
Nitrous oxide and oxygen
|
| Are there any side effects? |
Most side effects are mild and reversible and don’t cause lasting damage. You recover100% from the minimal sedation feeling after being given pure oxygen for a few minutes post- procedure. |
| How soon will I recover? |
You will regain control of your physical and mental faculties pretty quickly, so you may be able to take yourself home soon after conscious sedation procedure. |
| Will I be awake? |
You will be awake but relaxed |
| Will I remember the procedure? |
You may remember most of the procedure(s) |
| How quickly does it take effect? |
After about 5 – 10 Minutes |
| What are the procedures for Minimal Sedation? |
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| Is the dental injection still necessary? |
Yes, You will still need a local anaesthetic, numbing medication, at the site where the dentist is working in the mouth, to relieve pain if the procedure causes any discomfort. |
Conscious sedation is a good option if you feel anxious about a dental procedure.
It's usually not too costly and has few side effects or complications, especially in comparison to general anaesthesia. It may even encourage you to go to important appointments that you'd otherwise put off because you're nervous about the procedure itself, which can improve your oral and overall health throughout your life.