Inhaled minimal sedation. You breathe nitrous oxide — otherwise known as “laughing gas” — combined with oxygen through a mask that’s placed over your nose. The gas helps you relax. The amount of sedation you receive is controlled, and the gas tends to wear off quickly. This is the only form of sedation where you may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.

Minimal Oral sedation. The patient is given a pill the night before and an hour before treatment .The pill will make you drowsy, although you’ll still be awake. It may be combined with nitrous oxide for patients with severe anxiety. Some people become groggy enough from mild oral sedation to actually fall asleep during the procedure. They usually can, though, be awakened with a gentle shake” You will need a designated driver for this type of sedation.