Did you know that sources estimate that roughly 36% of the population suffers from dental anxiety? That means you’re not alone if you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming appointment, whether it’s for a routine checkup and cleaning or a more complex procedure.
Your dentist can offer a sedative to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your visit, but you might avoid these medications if you’ve heard horror stories about what’s involved. Continue reading to learn about 3 rumors circulating about dental sedation that you shouldn’t believe!
Myth #1: You Will Lose Control
It’s natural to feel vulnerable when you’re sitting still in the dentist’s chair, and although certain medications can help, many patients fear that they’ll lose control of themselves. You might be worried that you’ll share all your deepest secrets or break into fits of laughter that interrupt your procedure, but that’s not usually the case.
Some sedatives, like oral conscious sedation in pill form and laughing gas, reduce your body’s ability to sense external stimuli to help you feel at ease, but don’t act as a truth serum or giggle potion, meaning you don’t have to worry that you’ll do or say something you shouldn’t.
Myth #2: You’ll be “Knocked Out”
While some patients are concerned they might overshare while medicated, others are concerned that they’ll be fully put to sleep. However, that’s not always the case. While undergoing IV sedation might help you feel so relaxed that you nod off, these options are intended to calm your mind and body rather than knock you out.
For instance, patients typically remain aware enough to respond to their dentists’ questions or directions. With that said, these drugs can have a memory-loss effect that makes it difficult to remember the details of your procedure after the fact, though many anxious patients consider this yet another benefit of sedation.
Myth #3: You’ll Feel Sick Afterwards
You might not accept your dentist’s offer for sedation if you are worried that you’ll feel nauseated or groggy for a day or two afterward. Fortunately, the medications your dentist uses don’t usually have lasting or lingering effects.
For example, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a gas mask placed over your nose while your dentist works, and the effects of the drug fade moments after you stop breathing it in. Oral conscious and IV sedation tend to linger for a few hours after your visit, but many patients can resume their normal activities after being sedated. Your dentist will let you know if they anticipate you needing someone to help drive you home after your appointment.
If you’re still unsure whether dental sedation is right for you, consulting your dentist is the best way to find out!
About the Practice
Patients at Sandy Lake Dental & Orthodontics benefit from two dentists who are passionate about helping families in Coppell improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. Dr. Horton and Dr. Nguyen share over 20 years of combined experience and collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet your needs under one roof, including multiple options for dental sedation. Regardless of the reason for your visit, they can provide options to help you feel relaxed and comfortable the entire time. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 393-7348.