Common myths about sedation dentistry

Modern cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of treatments and services. These not only make your mouth healthy but also make your smile beautiful. Many people fear taking advantage of dental examinations and treatments. The simple, safe and effective solution to your entire problem is sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry has become popular in dentistry but patients are still skeptical about accepting this completely. It is often misinterpreted as some find it unnecessary or even harmful. Many are not able whether it’s right for them. This is one of the most practical and efficient forms of treatment available for patients who fear the dentist.

Below are the most common sedation myths which many people do not believe.

• Immediately puts you to sleep

When people hear of sedation, they associate it with the complete unconsciousness. This is not true! Complete unconsciousness comes with general anesthesia and major surgeries. Sedation dentistry is different where there are different levels of sedation. You can choose based on your comfort level.

Usually, patients choose minimal sleep dentistry where you will in just a relaxed state. You will be completely aware during the process but may not be able to recall some parts of the procedure.

• It’s only for dental phobias

Sedation dentistry is widely known as an effective solution for patients with anxiety or phobia. It has given benefits to many other patients also. Therefore, it can be used on patients who have-

• Fear, anxiety or phobia for dental visits or dental instruments such as dental drills.
• Low pain threshold.
• Strong gag reflex.
• Not able to sit at one place during dental treatment.

Sedation is safe under professional supervision and there are no severe side-effects.

• Only intravenous (IV) sedation is effective

Sedatives put directly into the bloodstream are stronger than other options. The results are quick but the risk is also high. There are other types of sedation dentistry that are effective at different levels of sedation and less invasive.

• Oral sedation: This is given in the form of a pill or dissolved under the tongue within a few minutes.
• Inhalation conscious sedation: Nitrous oxide is used which is given through a nasal hood. It is placed over the nose. The oxygen mixed with nitrous oxide makes you light-headed or feel happy. It wears off after the procedure.

• Everyone gets the same dosage

Many people assume that sedation is one dose that is suitable for all processes. This is not true! Sedation dentistry and other kinds of anesthesia are administered as per the patient’s age, health, needs, weight, medical history, and FDA regulations.

Sedation dentists possess a license and hold years of experience with all forms and levels of sedation. The dosage will be given ensuring safety and comfortable procedure.

• It is not affordable

Many people assume that sedation offers potential benefits and options, it will be expensive. In some cases, sedation dentistry costs very little for the patient. Therefore, the procedures are not only affordable but also covered by many insurance companies. This will minimize your cost and maximize comfort.

• It makes a person non-responsive

It is not true. The sedation dentistry puts you in a deep state of relaxation but you can hear and respond to any concerns. There is the loss of memory associated with sedation dentistry where you will not be able to recall the procedure. You will not experience any discomfort in the dental chair while the dentist talks to you.

• Used for complex procedures

Sedation dentistry can be used for any dental procedure from non-invasive treatments such as routine dental exams and cleanings to surgical procedures such as oral surgery or root canal. It is very safe.

There is some risk involved with sedation as with any dental procedure. With proper care, you may have only some side-effects. You will feel drowsy after the treatment but any sensation will go away in a few hours. Always bring a family member or friend with you to and from your appointment if you are aware that you will get sedation.

The dentists provide recovery details so you know what to expect after getting sedation. You won’t experience any issues if you follow the dentist’s instructions.