Sedation Dentistry Options in Charlotte, NC

Reviewed by Dr. Riddhi Patel, DMD, MD, FACS
Last updated August 2026

EXCELLENT ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 · 451 reviews Google

If the thought of oral surgery makes you anxious, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to white-knuckle it through your procedure. At Harmony, Dr. Patel offers several sedation options designed to keep you comfortable and completely at ease from start to finish. Most patients remember little to nothing of the actual procedure itself.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are the experts in outpatient sedation, with a range of anesthetic options to fit your individual needs and medical history. Local anesthetic is always provided during any procedure, and the right sedation type is chosen together with you based on your comfort level and the nature of your surgery.

The choice of which type of sedation is most appropriate depends on the specific needs of the individual. In choosing the most appropriate method, Dr. Patel considers your medical history and your level of anxiety. Options include nitrous oxide sedation, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.

IV Sedation

IV Sedation involves a sedative that is administered intravenously, or directly into a vein. It is indicated when deeper sedation is required. This type of sedation can be quickly modified to your state of consciousness and can be continued as long as necessary for the procedure.

IV Sedation requires an empty stomach. Patients receiving this type of sedation will be instructed as to how many hours prior to their surgical procedure they should stop eating or drinking. In addition to this, patients receiving IV sedation will need to have an escort present for the appointment and to be able to drive them home when the appointment is completed.

Before IV Sedation

DO NOT eat or drink anything (including water) for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment.

No smoking at least 12 hours before surgery. Ideally, cut down or stop smoking as soon as possible prior and after the day of surgery.

No marijuana for 2 days prior to surgery
A responsible adult (at least 18 years old) must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home. Uber, Lift or ride-share services will not be allowed under any circumstances.
The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following the anesthesia experience.
The patient should not wear jewelry or watches and should wear loose fitting clothing.
The patient must not eat or drink starting midnight prior to surgery. (NPO rules may be adjusted if discussed with Dr. Patel first)
In general, patients should take their prescribed medications with a very small sip of water (more than 2 hours before surgery) except where changed or halted by the MD (i.e. Coumadin)
Do not wear lipstick, fake eye lashes, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery. Try to have at least one finger without fake nails to help read your oxygenation
If you have an illness such as a cold, sore throat, stomach or bowel upset, please notify the office prior to your appointment.
If you take medications, please check with Dr. Patel prior to your surgical date for medication instructions

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used for patients requiring extensive surgical procedures like orthognathic surgery or facial reconstruction following trauma. It’s also often used for individuals with special needs, severe anxiety, or other medical conditions presenting challenges to care. As performed in a hospital-based or ambulatory surgery setting, general anesthesia achieves the deepest sedation level, rendering the patient unconscious and unable to feel pain. A trained and licensed anesthesiologist will administer the general anesthesia, monitor the patient’s vitals, and support respiration throughout the procedure.

Nitrous Sedation

Commonly referred to as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is used as a mild sedative to reduce anxiety and allow a level of relaxation during a procedure. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small mask over the nose. It is administered for the duration of the procedure and is turned off as the procedure is coming to an end. The effects of this method of sedation wear off very quickly.

Oral Sedation

Oral Sedation means that you will be given a prescription for an oral medication prior to you appointment. Taken at the recommended time before your appointment, this medication allows you to fully relax by the time your procedure begins. When receiving oral sedation, a patient must have an escort on the day of the procedure to drive them to and from the oral surgeon’s office.