For many patients, especially those with dental anxiety, the idea of sedation can be the key to getting much-needed care in the dental chair. But despite how safe and effective modern dental sedation is, plenty of myths still make people hesitant to try it. Knowledge brings comfort, so let’s debunk some of the most common lore about dental sedation.
What is Dental Sedation?
Before we get into separating fact and fiction, let’s first define dental sedation.
Dental sedation is the act of administering a sedative to patients who experience intense, acute anxiety at the thought of visiting the dentist with the goal of calming them. Two common methods of sedation include:
- Oral conscious sedation: Oral conscious sedation involves giving a patient a powerful anti-anxiety medication about an hour prior to a procedure to make them enter a deep state of relaxation. You’ll remain awake and able to respond to simple commands, but time will seem to go by in a flash, and you likely won’t be able to remember much of your visit afterward.
- Nitrous oxide sedation: You’ve probably heard of “laughing gas” before – this method uses a nasal mask fitted over the patient to deliver a medication that produces a light, euphoric feeling and dissolves their feelings of fear and apprehension. You’ll be lucid enough during the procedure to respond to questions. The nice part about this method is that it wears off quickly once treatment is over, and patients can go about their business.
Now, let’s dispel some of the myths surrounding this practice.
Myth #1: Dental Sedation is Only for Major Procedures
Dental sedation isn’t just for surgeries or long, complex treatments. It can be used for routine procedures like cleanings, fillings, or crown placements, especially if a patient has high anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or trouble sitting still. Whether the treatment is simple or involved, sedation can help make the experience more comfortable and stress-free.
Myth # 2: You’ll Be Fully Asleep
Many people think sedation means being completely unconscious, like during surgery. In reality, most dental sedation methods – especially nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation – keep you awake but deeply relaxed. Only general anesthesia, which is rarely used in dental offices, puts you fully to sleep.
Myth #3: Dental Sedation is Dangerous
When administered by a trained and licensed professional, dental sedation is extremely safe. Dentists carefully evaluate your medical history, current medications, and overall health to determine which level of sedation is appropriate. During the procedure, your vital signs are closely monitored to ensure your safety and well-being at all times.
Myth #4: Dental Sedation is Just for Adults
Dental sedation is safe and effective for children as well. Dentists often use mild sedation, like nitrous oxide, to help young patients relax during their visits. It’s especially helpful for kids who are nervous, have special needs, or require more extensive dental work.
Myth #5: Recovery from Dental Sedation Takes a Long Time
Recovery depends on the type of sedation used. Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes after the gas is turned off, allowing many patients to resume normal activities right away. Oral sedation may take a few hours to fully wear off, so you’ll need someone to drive you home – but you’ll typically feel back to normal by the end of the day.
Dental sedation has helped countless patients overcome fear, anxiety, and discomfort to receive the dental care they need. It’s not dangerous, it won’t leave you unable to function, and its usage is more commonplace than you may think.
About the Author
Since 1997, Dr. Dustin C. Lively has been serving the Mangum community and is proud to be a native himself. He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and has since enrolled in many continuing education courses at the Misch Implant Institute and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. If you think sedation dentistry might benefit you, 333 Dental Care offers oral conscious and nitrous oxide sedation for any procedure, all administered by a warm, friendly, and experienced team of professionals. Call us today to schedule your appointment at (580) 782-2552 or visit our website.