Dental Sedation for Thunder Bay Patients

At Westfort Family Dental, we strive to provide you with a comfortable environment everywhere from the waiting room to the dentist's chair. We understand that visiting the dentist is more nerve-wracking for some people, which is why we offer dental sedation for Thunder Bay patients who need additional help relaxing prior to and during a procedure. Our sedation techniques include the following:

• Oral Sedation: There are many oral sedation medications available, and your dentist will prescribe one based on any pre-existing medical conditions or specific medications that you're taking. You must dissolve a pill under your tongue prior to your appointment, which means you'll need a responsible driver to and from our office. An oral sedative will help you feel calmer and more relaxed; you'll remain conscious and aware of your surroundings. 
• Nitrous Oxide: Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. Often called "laughing gas", nitrous oxide won't put you to sleep; you'll be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions the dentist may have. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.

Regular dental checkups are essential for good oral health and hygiene, making your visits very important and not to be avoided. If you've skipped previous appointments or are tempted to because of your anxiety, please know that help is available. We encourage you to talk to your dentist about your options. For more information about these sedation techniques, please contact our office.