Nitrous vs Oral vs IV Sedation: Which One, and Why

The three options differ on four things that matter to a patient: how deep they go, how fast they act, who has to drive you home, and what they cost.

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The three options differ on four things that matter to a patient: how deep they go, how fast they act, who has to drive you home, and what they cost.

The comparison

Nitrous oxide - lightest. Calm within three to five minutes, flushed out with pure oxygen at the end, no escort needed, you can drive yourself. $50 - $150 per visit. Mild to moderate anxiety, short visits.
Oral conscious sedation - a prescription taken about an hour before. You stay responsive but may sleep, and may not remember the visit. Adult escort required, about 24 hours to clear. $150 - $500 per appointment. Moderate to severe anxiety, longer visits, strong gag reflex.
IV sedation - the deepest conscious sedation available in a dental office. Into a vein, with heart rate and blood pressure checked during the procedure and the dose adjusted as needed. Escort required. $250 - $1,000+ per visit. Severe anxiety and long procedures.
General anesthesia - provided by an oral surgeon or dental anesthesiologist. $800 - $2,000 per procedure. Used where the treating clinician says it is indicated, typically oral surgery.

Not every office offers every option

Published patient guides are explicit that practices differ: some offer nitrous only, some add oral sedation, and IV sedation is generally provided by oral-surgery groups or with a dental anesthesiologist present. Ask what your practice actually provides before planning around an option.