Nitrous Oxide, Oral or IV Sedation: How the Types Differ
Sedation is often talked about as a single thing, which makes the options hard to compare. The sections below set out the main types and what separates them, so you can bring specific questions to the dentist who would be arranging it.
What sedation dentistry means
Sedation dentistry is medication that helps you manage stress or anxiety when you have a dental procedure, and you may have dental sedation if you are having a lengthy procedure or you have dental anxiety. In sedation dentistry you are awake and able to respond to questions, but you do not notice pain (Cleveland Clinic).
Related reading: what sedation dentistry is.
The most common types
The most common types are nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation. A dentist recommends a sedation type based on factors like your level of anxiety about a procedure, how long the procedure will take, your health and your personal preferences (Cleveland Clinic).
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask or nosepiece. You start to feel calm within three to five minutes (Cleveland Clinic).
Oral conscious sedation
Oral conscious sedation is prescription medication that your dentist gives you about an hour before your procedure. It can make you feel very tired (Cleveland Clinic).
IV sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation is the deepest form of conscious sedation available in a dental office setting (Cleveland Clinic).
Before and after
Your dentist may ask what medications you take, because certain medications may affect how sedation works. You may need to avoid food and drink for several hours before your appointment. If you are having IV sedation or oral conscious sedation, arrange for someone to take you home after your procedure (Cleveland Clinic).
Recovery is not the same for everyone: recovery times vary, and they depend on the type of sedation you choose and how your body responds to the medications (Cleveland Clinic).
Related reading: preparing for dental sedation.
Talking it over with a dentist
Which type fits a particular appointment is not something to settle from a web page. That recommendation sits with the dentist, who weighs factors like your level of anxiety about the procedure, how long it will take, your health and your personal preferences (Cleveland Clinic).
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Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. "Sedation Dentistry." Updated 2025-08-05. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22275-sedation-dentistry
