There are several different types of sedation techniques that can be used in a dental setting:
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): This is the lightest form of sedation and involves breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a mask placed over your nose. It helps you feel relaxed but still fully awake. The effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed.
Oral Conscious Sedation: With this method, you take a pill (usually diazepam or similar) an hour before your appointment. You'll remain awake throughout your procedure but will feel very drowsy and may even drift off into a light sleep. The sedative can take several hours to wear off completely.
General Anesthesia: This is the deepest form of sedation where you are rendered unconscious during the procedure. It's typically reserved for complex surgeries or cases where local anesthesia alone isn't sufficient to control pain and discomfort.