Sedation dentistry techniques have been used to put patients at ease since 1844. Normally, historically established practices are trusted by the public, but for one reason or another, this service has plenty of misinformation surrounding it. If you’re nervous about an upcoming dental appointment and are hesitant to ask for sedation options, you may have encountered some sedation dentistry fiction.
Let’s set the record straight by addressing five such myths. You might be surprised by what you learn!
#1. Laughing Gas Makes You Giggly
Admittedly, this bit of fiction is somewhat deserved. With a name like “laughing gas”, who wouldn’t assume that excessive giggling would be involved?
Laughing gas, or “nitrous oxide”, is simply a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Neither of these chemicals directly cause laughter, but they do have a relaxing, almost euphoric effect. This sense of relief might make certain jokes seem funnier to you, and that’s about it. You likely won’t be cackling like a cartoon villain.
#2. Dental Sedation Puts You to Sleep
For some, the thought of falling unconscious can be just as nerve-wracking as their treatment. Others might prefer to be as knocked out as possible. However, most dentists don’t offer sedation techniques strong enough to “put you under”.
There are a couple of reasons for this, but overall, it’s actually better and safer for you to be awake during your dental treatments. Because all dental sedation techniques still provide calm, you’ll likely remember your visit as a positive one!
#3. The Sedative Effects Last for A While
Some sedation options are stronger than others. For example, if you opt for a prescription pill (a.k.a. oral conscious sedation), you will probably need to make ride-home arrangements. Laughing gas, on the other hand, passes through your system quickly. Most patients are able to leave the dental office on their own after only a couple of minutes.
#4. Dental Sedation is Risky
Dental sedation is considered safe by the American Dental Association. Generally speaking, complications are only a serious risk if you neglect or forget to tell your dentist about certain medications, supplements, vitamins, and health conditions. Make sure you inform them about your health history as much as possible and bring your medicine bottles to your appointment if you take more than two.
#5. It’s Only For “The Big Treatments”
Long or uncomfortable treatments might be the most obvious use for dental sedation, but patients who avoid or dread their appointments due to anxiety are also good candidates. Other challenges dental sedation can help with include:
- Difficulties sitting still
- Strong gag reflexes
- Hypersensitivities and sensory overload
If you think laughing gas or prescription sedation could accommodate difficulties not listed, talk to your dentist. They’re invested in you and your oral health and want you to feel comfortable and safe under their care. Together, you can tackle sedation dentistry myths and create a treatment plan that works best for you!
About the Practice
Our team at Healthy Smiles Dental Care of Flint is friendly and compassionate. We offer both nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation for patients who find dental visits challenging. Our skilled TMJ and oral facial pain specialist, Dr. Ewing, is also a licensed professional counselor. Many nervous patients appreciate his unique blend of experiences, and we value his contributions to helping our office be a safe, comfortable space! To get in touch, call 810-720-6433 or book an appointment online through our website.