What is oral sedation?

Oral sedation is a type of sedation dentistry involving prescription medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Often administered as a pill taken before the appointment, oral sedation induces a deep sense of calm while allowing the patient to remain awake and responsive to verbal instructions. This method is particularly effective for individuals with dental anxiety or those undergoing extensive treatments. Some patients may feel so at ease that they nearly fall asleep during the procedure. The effects can last for several hours, requiring a companion to provide transportation before and after the appointment.

Do you feel pain with oral sedation?

No, you typically do not feel pain with oral sedation. This sedation method works by helping you relax and significantly dulling your perception of discomfort. While oral sedation doesn’t act as an anesthetic, it is often combined with local anesthesia to ensure complete pain relief during the procedure. The calming effects of the sedative allow you to feel deeply at ease, and many patients remain so comfortable they may feel like they could fall asleep. This makes it an excellent option for individuals with dental anxiety or those undergoing lengthy or invasive dental treatments.

How long does it take for sedation to wear off?

The effects of sedation depend on the type and dosage used. For oral sedation, most patients feel its effects for 4–6 hours, though drowsiness may persist for several hours after the procedure. It’s common to feel relaxed and slightly groggy immediately after treatment, so it’s important to have someone available to drive you home. Recovery times can vary based on factors like metabolism and the specific sedative used. We will provide aftercare instructions to ensure a safe and comfortable recovery. Resting and avoiding strenuous activities are recommended until the sedation completely wears off.

Sedation Dentistry in Chico, CA

At Ashley Harrison DDS, we understand that dental anxiety is a common concern for many patients. That’s why we’re proud to offer sedation dentistry in Chico, CA. Our compassionate team is committed to providing safe and effective sedation options to help you feel comfortable and relaxed during dental treatment. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more complex procedures, sedation dentistry can make your dental visits stress-free and pleasant. We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming, family-like atmosphere where every patient is treated with care and respect.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. The primary goal of sedation dentistry is to provide a stress-free environment where patients feel at ease, regardless of the type of treatment being performed.

Levels of Sedation

Minimal sedation: The patient remains awake but feels relaxed and at ease.
Moderate sedation (Conscious Sedation): The patient remains responsive but may not remember much of the procedure.

Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients with dental anxiety, those with a low pain threshold, or individuals requiring extensive dental care. No matter the level of sedation, our goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and secure throughout your treatment.

Benefits of sedation dentistry

There are numerous benefits to choosing sedation dentistry for your next dental visit:

Reduces anxiety: Sedation helps patients with dental fears, anxiety or phobia, and nervousness feel more at ease.
Pain-free experience: Many patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, making it feel like painless dentistry.
Time efficiency: Complex or multiple procedures can be completed in a single visit.
Improves oral health: Patients who avoid the dentist for nervous patients are more likely to return for needed treatments when sedation is an option.
Feeling comfortable: Sedation allows patients to focus on the benefits of their treatment rather than their fear.
Supportive environment: Our entire team works to create a warm and welcoming space where even the most anxious patients feel cared for.

Types of sedation options we offer in Chico, CA

We offer safe and effective sedation methods tailored to your needs. Here are the common types of sedation available:

a middle aged woman sits in the dental chair and is smiling

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before your dental appointment. This method offers a deeper level of sedation compared to nitrous oxide, making it an excellent choice for patients with moderate dental anxiety. With oral sedation, the patient remains awake but deeply relaxed—some even feel drowsy enough to nap during treatment. You’ll need someone to drive you home afterward, as the sedative effects can last several hours.

A little boy has a tube over his nose providing inhalable nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative inhaled through a small mask. It helps reduce anxiety and induce a sense of calm while keeping you fully alert and responsive. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, allowing most patients to resume their daily routine, even driving themselves home after treatment.

Sedation Dentistry for Dental Anxiety & Phobia in Chico, CA

If you experience intense dental anxiety or suffer from a dental phobia, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. At Ashley Harrison DDS, we specialize in helping nervous patients access the care they need in a supportive, judgment-free setting.

Our oral sedation services are specifically tailored for patients who dread dental visits or have postponed care due to anxiety. Whether you’ve had a traumatic dental experience in the past or simply feel panicked at the thought of sitting in the chair, we’ll help you find peace of mind with sedation.

We do not offer IV sedation or general anesthesia, which render patients completely unconscious. However, we’re happy to refer out any patients who require that level of sedation. These deeper forms of dental anesthesia are typically reserved for oral surgeries or extensive procedures requiring the presence of a trained anesthesiologist. If you believe this is the right path for you, we’ll help guide you to a trusted provider.

For most of our patients, oral conscious sedation is highly effective. It offers deep relaxation without putting you to sleep and allows us to complete your care while you remain calm, aware, and safe.

Toothache or Emergency Relief with Sedation

Dental emergencies—especially toothaches—can be physically painful and emotionally stressful. If fear of pain or previous trauma is keeping you from seeking urgent treatment, sedation dentistry may be the answer.

At Ashley Harrison DDS, we offer sedation options to help patients get through unexpected dental care with confidence and calm. Whether you’re dealing with a toothache, broken tooth, or emergency procedure, we can use oral sedation to help you relax and receive treatment without added anxiety.

For more complex cases or patients needing general anesthesia, we’ll refer you to an outside specialist who can safely administer IV sedation or render you completely unconscious. These deeper forms of sedation are not provided in our office, but we’ll support you in getting the care you need.

If you’re in pain but too anxious to visit the dentist, we want to help. Oral sedation is a safe and effective option that can help reduce anxiety while allowing you to finally get relief. You deserve fast, compassionate care—even in a moment of crisis.

What to expect during sedation dentistry

Here’s what you can expect when you choose sedation dentistry at our office:

Consultation and assessment: We’ll evaluate your medical history and discuss your goals.
Preparation: You may need to fast for a period before your appointment and arrange for a ride home.
Administration: Your sedation medication will be administered before your procedure begins.

Relaxation and comfort: You’ll feel calm, and in many cases, remember very little of the procedure.
Aftercare: We’ll give you clear post-op instructions to ensure you recover smoothly.

Understanding the side effects of sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry is generally very safe when performed by a qualified provider. Mild side effects may include:

Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Slight nausea

We will thoroughly review all risks and side effects with you during your consultation to make sure you feel informed and comfortable.

Cost of sedation dentistry in Chico, CA

The cost of sedation depends on the type of sedation used and the complexity of your treatment. Some dental insurance plans offer partial coverage—especially when sedation is deemed medically necessary.

Our friendly team will help you understand your insurance benefits and offer flexible payment plans to make your care more accessible.

Schedule your sedation dental appointment in Chico, CA

Don’t let dental anxiety or fear of pain prevent you from achieving optimal oral health. At Ashley Harrison DDS, we prioritize your comfort and well-being with our sedation dentistry options. Our caring team, welcoming environment, and personalized care ensure that every patient feels like a valued member of our dental family. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

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FAQ

Is sedation safe for kids or seniors?

Yes. Sedation dentistry is safe for most patients, including children and seniors, when administered by a trained professional. We always conduct a thorough review of your health history and tailor your sedation plan to your age and medical needs.

Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?

It depends on your plan. While most insurance providers don’t cover sedation for elective procedures, some may offer coverage when sedation is required for complex or medically necessary treatment. Our team will help you navigate your benefits and determine what’s covered.

How long does oral sedation last?

Oral sedation effects typically last 4–6 hours. You may feel drowsy for the rest of the day, so we recommend taking it easy and avoiding strenuous activity.

Will I be asleep during sedation?

No. With the types of sedation we offer, you’ll remain conscious but deeply relaxed. You may not remember much of the procedure, and many patients feel as if they’ve taken a light nap.