Our doctors will work with you to decide the best form of sedation for your needs. We evaluate a number of factors, including your level of anxiety, your overall health, your medical and sedation histories, and the treatment you require. Inhaled Sedation Inhaled sedation refers to nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas”. Nitrous oxide takes effect quickly and wears off just as fast, so there are no long-lasting side effects. Inhaled sedation is extremely safe and very effective—you’ll feel calm and relaxed, but you’ll still be fully conscious. We use inhaled sedation in conjunction with injected local anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain during your procedure. After an endodontic procedure with inhaled sedation, you will be able to drive yourself home. Although most side effects from nitrous oxide are not serious, some patients may experience nausea, lightheadedness, headaches, and a feeling of heaviness in the arms and legs. Conscious Oral Sedation With conscious oral sedation, you’ll be prescribed a single sedative pill that you’ll pick up from your local pharmacy. Before your endodontic procedure, you’ll take this medication as instructed and it will help you feel relaxed throughout your appointment. Some patients doze off under this type of sedation, but most stay awake. Unlike inhaled sedation, oral sedation does not wear off quickly, so it’s important to have someone to drive you to and from your appointment. The side effects of conscious oral sedation are similar to those of nitrous oxide. They include feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, drowsiness, and nausea. These side effects last longer than those of nitrous oxide, so you may need to arrange to take the rest of the day off from work or school after your endodontic procedure if you choose this form of sedation.