May 8, 2026

How Are Sleep Dentistry & Sedation Dentistry Different?

You may think that sedation and sleep dentistry are terms that are interchangeably used to describe a type of sedation while getting dental treatments done, but there is a difference. In this article, we will be discussing the type of dental sedation options that are offered at Renken Dentistry.

Sedation Dentistry Can Help Ease Dental Anxiety

Sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry refer to a range of techniques we can use at the dental office to help you feel more comfortable and reduce anxiety.

With all types of sedation dentistry, you can have your teeth taken care of without having to experience any pain or discomfort. With you more at ease, we can work more efficiently. If you suffer from dental phobia, this may be the best option to stay healthy without having to experience that pain you may fear. We will discuss three types of sedation options that you can see and decide which is best for your phobia level or circumstances.

Dental Sedation Options Offered At Renken Dentistry

  • Laughing Gas - This kind of sedation is inhaled through a rubber piece placed over your nose. The medication inhaled reacts with your body to help you feel more relaxed and at ease. It typically wears off within minutes after its use.
  • Oral Conscious Sedation - This type of sedation is administered in pill form. About an hour before your procedure, you’re asked to take the pill, and by the time of your treatment, you’ll be feeling more relaxed, sleepy, and less aware of the things going on around you. With this sedation option, it is best to organize a friend or family member to pick you up and take you home.

What Type of Dental Sedation is Right for You?

At Renken Dentistry, we hope to give our patients a new outlook on a trip to the dentist. We aim to make dental phobia a thing of the past by giving our patients the tools necessary to overcome their fears of the dentist. Sleep and sedation dentistry play a big role in this mission, so give us a call today to schedule your first appointment!

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