Tranquil Teeth: 3 Myths About Dental Sedation

You’re not alone if you feel nervous about an upcoming dental appointment. An estimated 50 to 80 percent of Americans experience anxiety regarding sitting in the dentist’s chair. Unfortunately, this fear can sometimes be so intense that it prevents patients from receiving smile-saving care.

Your dentist can provide sedation to ease your frayed nerves and help you through your visit. However, if you’re functioning under one of several common misconceptions about what’s involved, you might turn down this offer of comfort and care. Continue reading to learn 3 falsehoods about dental sedation you shouldn’t believe!

Myth #1: It’s Reserved for Complex Procedures

Many patients assume that sedatives are only available to those who are undergoing invasive or surgical treatments, like root canals or tooth extractions. Thankfully, that’s not necessarily the case! Although these medications are often used in this manner, they are also often recommended for other reasons.

For instance, your dentist might suggest one of these medications if you:

• Are undergoing a lengthy treatment or several procedures back-to-back.
• Have a sensitive gag reflex.
• Suffer from extreme anxiety around dental visits.
• Struggle to sit still for longer periods.

As you can see, dental sedation can be helpful in many different scenarios.

Myth #2: There’s Only One Type

If you’re not familiar with how dental sedatives work, it’s easy to assume there’s only one option. However, many providers offer multiple options so that if one isn’t feasible for whatever reason, you might still benefit from another.

Some possibilities can include:

• Nitrous oxide. Also called laughing gas, this drug is inhaled through a nose mask placed on your face while your dentist works. The ensuing tingly, euphoric, and sometimes giggly effects kick in within moments on inhaling it, then dissipate just as quickly when the mask is removed.
• Oral conscious sedation. This is a pill that your provider prescribes ahead of time and should be taken before arriving for your appointment, so it’s working by the time your procedure begins. Popular medications used include benzodiazepines, zaleplon, and lorazepam.
• Intravenous (IV). Administered directly into your bloodstream, this medication usually produces the strongest effects. It’s often preferred for more complicated treatments and surgeries.

Not all dentists offer each type; if you’re unsure what choices are available to you, the best way to learn is to ask your provider directly.

Myth #3: It “Knocks You Out”

Many patients avoid these drugs because they worry it will render them unconscious and fear losing control over themselves. While IV sedation might put you to sleep, laughing gas and oral conscious sedation are intended to provide comfort without knocking you out.

While these medications can potentially make you drowsy, you should remain awake enough to respond to your dentist’s questions and instructions. The effects reduce your body’s ability to register pain and lower anxiety, so you’re comfortable and calm throughout your procedure.

About the Practice

Patients with Laura Philipps, DMD, benefit from two dentists who share more than 20 years of combined experience. Dr. Philipps and Dr. Ramos collaborate to offer a full menu of services at one location to conveniently meet all your needs. They combine a whole-body approach to oral healthcare with state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results meant to last. Plus, they offer multiple forms of sedation to ease your frayed nerves, regardless of the reason for your visit. You can request an appointment on the website or call (432) 570-4433.