While sedation dentistry has become one of the most common practices around the world, there are still many people who are confused about its use due to misinformation and popularized word-of-mouth myths.
The practice of sedation dentistry can completely change your experience or even enable you to get the work you need done in the first place by helping to reduce anxiety. Continue reading to bust six common myths about sedation dentistry and discover how it can help you relax at your next dental appointment.
1. Sedatives Will Make You Unconscious
There is a common confusion between sedatives and general anesthesia. Sedatives, which are provided by dentists for various patients and procedures, only dull your senses while leaving you fully awake and aware. General anesthesia, however, will cause you to fall asleep or go completely unconscious.
2. Anyone Can Receive Sedation
While most people can benefit from sedation dentistry, there are times when it’s not an option. You should avoid sedation dentistry if:
- You are pregnant.
- You have an allergy to the medication.
- You have other medical conditions that would interfere with the efficacy and safety of the treatment.
While there are limitations on sedation medications for these reasons, it’s good to note that if one sedation method doesn’t work, another may. This is why it’s important to consult with your dentist before you elect not to have a dental procedure because you assume you’re not eligible.
3. Sedation Dentistry is Expensive
While it’s true that most dental insurance plans classify sedation dentistry as a “luxury” or “optional” procedure, like some other dental treatments with proven medical benefits, it won’t add much to your bill depending on the type of sedation selected. Note that costs can also vary based on your location, the specific dentist, or dental team you select.
4. Sedation Dentistry Will Only Help With Painful Treatments
One of the more common myths about sedation dentistry revolves around its sole use as a pain suppressant.
It’s true that sedation will dull the receptors in your brain responsible for processing pain, but sedation dentistry can also be used to calm patients with moderate dental anxiety or extreme phobias.
It can also be used to assist patients with a sensitive gag reflex or who are going to undergo long procedures.
5. Only Adults Between a Certain Age Range Can Have Sedation
There is no age limit on who can benefit from sedation. Dentists who have been specially trained in the use of sedatives like nitrous oxide can adjust levels of the anesthetic to work for children and seniors alike.
6. Sedation is Bad for Your Health
There has never been a recorded case of sedatives harming a patient. There is a possibility of mild side effects like headache, drowsiness, dry mouth, or nausea after a treatment, but this is not the norm, and the effects don’t last longer than a few hours.
These complications can be more easily managed by your dentist if you share your history with certain medications or procedures you’ve had in the past.
Sedation dentistry can provide a comfortable and anxiety-free experience for dental patients. Dispelling these myths and sharing factual information about the practice can help to make sedation dentistry more easily understood and utilized by all.
About the Practice
At HJ Dental, a dedicated team of highly educated and skilled dentists is committed to your oral health and well-being. With a focus on cutting-edge dentistry and patient comfort, we provide top-quality dental services in a welcoming environment. To schedule an appointment, call (214) 521-3148 or visit the website for more information on available sedation dentistry services.