Is Sedation Dentistry Safe? Answers to Common Questions

Sedation dentistry uses well-tested medications to promote relaxation during dental procedures. Many patients have questions about the safety of sedation dentistry. This blog will answer several common questions about sedation dentistry and outline how these medications can help patients undergo dental procedures in comfort.

Questions and Answers About Sedation Dentistry

What are my options for sedation dentistry?

At College Street Smiles, we offer nitrous oxide and conscious oral sedation. Both types of sedation can help anxious patients relax.

Nitrous oxide is a gas breathed through a small mask that fits over your nose. Conscious oral sedation can be taken in pill or liquid form. Depending on the type of medication used, you may take it the night before and again the morning of your procedure.

What does nitrous oxide feel like?

Nitrous oxide is often nicknamed "laughing gas" because patients sometimes feel a euphoric sensation. Many patients report feeling very relaxed, but they are fully able to respond to the dental team's requests. The medication often produces a heavy sensation in the limbs and causes the fingers and toes to tingle.

How long does it take nitrous oxide to wear off?

Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes after your dentist stops the gas flow to your mask. Dentists generally turn down the gas flow at the end of your procedure so you will experience a seamless transition.

Can I drive myself home after dental sedation?

If you had nitrous oxide sedation, you would be cleared to drive immediately. You can return to work and school after your procedure. However, if you have conscious oral sedation, you will need a responsible adult to transport you to and from your appointment.

It would be best if you planned to rest quietly for the rest of the day and not drive or operate machinery until the next day. Depending on your reaction to the medication, you may need a second day of rest.

Is dental sedation appropriate for all ages?

Dentists feel confident using nitrous oxide on patients of all ages as long as they are healthy. Children often feel nervous about dental procedures, and nitrous oxide can help them feel calmer. Conscious oral sedation is typically recommended only for older teens and adults.

Can patients with health conditions take advantage of sedation dentistry?

Nitrous oxide is safe for most patients except in the first trimester of pregnancy and for those with respiratory illness, cardiac conditions, or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder).

Conscious oral sedation uses medications like benzodiazepines and antihistamines. These medications may not be safe for some age groups and patients with certain medical conditions. Always contact your primary care doctor and speak to your dentist about safety concerns before scheduling a procedure with sedation if you have medical needs.

What are some possible risks of sedation?

Side effects are typically uncommon and short-lived but may include snoring, irritability, fever, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Most patients feel no ill effects.

Advantages of Sedation Dentistry

Helps Anxious Patients Feel Confident

Sedation helps patients with dental anxiety undergo needed procedures without distress. Their oral health improves by receiving the care they need, and their lifetime dental costs may lower.

Well-Tested Medications

Sedative medications have been used for decades and have undergone extensive testing.

Reduces Gag Reflex

Sedation reduces or eliminates a patient's gag reflex during procedures, helping the patient feel less anxious and more relaxed.

Safer Procedures

Patients under sedation move less during procedures, making them safer.

Efficient Procedures

Sedation allows dentists to work more efficiently and accomplish more in one appointment.

Appropriate for All Ages

Healthy patients of all ages can receive dental sedation.

Sedation Dentistry Helps Patients

Patients who undergo procedures with sedation report feeling less anxiety leading up to their appointments. Feelings of anticipation can sometimes be worse than the actual procedure. If patients know they will receive sedation, they can feel calm about their upcoming procedures.

Call College Street Smiles

At College Street Smiles, we understand how sedation dentistry can reduce patients' fear of routine procedures. We offer conscious oral sedation and nitrous oxide for patients who want to feel relaxed during dental procedures. We want you to feel comfortable during your dental procedure and will do everything we can to ensure your safety.

Please call our Dickson, TN, office at 615-446-7878 today with questions or to schedule an appointment.