If you feel nervous or anxious about going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is extremely common, and for many people, it can lead to avoiding the dental care they need. Thankfully, dental sedation offers a way to help patients feel calm, relaxed, and comfortable during their procedures. But what is being under dental sedation actually like? Let’s explore the experience so you know what to expect.
What is Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental treatments. It’s often used for people with dental anxiety, low pain tolerance, strong gag reflexes, or those undergoing lengthy or complex procedures. There are different types of dental sedation, each offering a different level of relaxation:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) – Mild sedation.
- Oral sedation (pill form) – Moderate sedation.
- IV sedation – Moderate to deep sedation.
- General anesthesia – Complete unconsciousness (used less commonly in dentistry).
Before Sedation: What to Expect
Before your appointment, your dentist will review your medical history and go over any necessary instructions, such as fasting before treatment. You’ll be informed of what type of sedation will be used and how it will affect you.
If you’re receiving oral or IV sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment, as you may feel drowsy for several hours afterward.
During Sedation: The Experience
Here’s what being under dental sedation typically feels like, based on the type used:
- Nitrous oxide: This is the lightest form of sedation. You breathe in a sweet-smelling gas through a small mask over your nose. Within minutes, you’ll feel calm, slightly euphoric, and possibly a bit tingly. You remain fully awake and aware but relaxed. Once the mask is removed, the effects wear off quickly, and you can usually drive yourself home.
- Oral sedation: Taken as a pill (often Halcion or similar), oral sedation makes you feel very drowsy. You may be awake but feel detached from the procedure. Some people even fall asleep, though they can usually be easily awakened. Most patients report little or no memory of the procedure afterward.
- IV sedation: Delivered through a vein, this form provides a deeper level of sedation. You’ll feel calm and may drift in and out of sleep. IV sedation allows the dentist to adjust the level of medication throughout the procedure. You likely won’t remember much, if anything, afterward.
- General anesthesia: Reserved for more complex procedures or patients with severe dental phobia, general anesthesia renders you completely unconscious. It’s typically used in hospital settings or by dental specialists with advanced training.
After Sedation: Recovery
Recovery depends on the type of sedation used. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, while oral and IV sedation may leave you groggy for several hours. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions and avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions until you feel fully alert again.
Being under dental sedation is a safe and effective way to make your dental experience more comfortable. Whether you need mild relaxation or deeper sedation, modern dentistry has options to help ease your fears and ensure a smooth procedure. If you’re anxious about your next visit, talk to your dentist; sedation might be the solution that helps you get the care you need without the stress.
About the Author
Dr. Mike Rudolph has practiced dentistry for more than 30 years. He is a graduate of the Maryland School of Dentistry, and then served in the US Navy for 7 years, 2 of which were served onboard the USS Midway. Today, Dr. Rudolph is a member of the Kosciusko County Dental Society, Indiana Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. Anxious to see the dentist? Dr. Rudolph and our expert team can administer dental sedation to ease your nervousness. Schedule your appointment today online or call (574) 269-1787.