Dental care has been transformed by sedation dentistry. It has made treatments comfortable and, more importantly, more effective. However, misconceptions about sedation dentistry have emerged alongside its growing popularity. To help you make wise decisions regarding your oral health, we will present the popular myths about the practice and distinguish fact from fiction.
Myth 1: Sedation Dentistry is for Major Procedures
Sedation dentistry is used beyond those intricate procedures like root canals and wisdom teeth extractions. It can also be applied in the treatment of someone who suffers deep anxiety when visiting the dentist or for simple procedures like cleanings and fillings. Using tranquilizers makes the treatment easier for patients.
Myth 2: Sedation Means You’re Completely Unconscious
Here are the many benefits of dental sedation that make this special field in dentistry a stress-free blessing for many patients:
Myth 3: Only People with Deep Anxiety Need Sedation
Sedation is not only for the serious apprehension of a patient, but may also be for those with a strong gag reflex or low tolerance for pain. It’s useful for patients undergoing lengthy procedures who need to remain comfortable throughout. Sedation greatly assists individuals with special conditions like Parkinson’s disease or autism.
Myth 4: You’ll Act Strangely or Say Embarrassing Things Under Sedation
One of the common myths about sedation dentistry is that nitrous oxide can induce a patient to laugh uncontrollably or act like a truth serum, as portrayed by Hollywood in some films. Not at all like alcohol, oral sedatives make one relaxed rather than “out of control.” As for IV sedatives, they make the patient drowsy with little memory of what happened, and that’s it.
Myth 5: Sedation Dentistry Is Only for Adults
For kids who may have trouble sitting still, dentists frequently administer anesthesia to keep them calm. It’s a safe method that helps them get the dental care they require without being restless during the procedure. One should speak with a pediatric dentist to learn what the best sedation alternative for the child is.
Myth 6: Recovery from Sedation Takes Days
Recovery time after sedation varies based on the type used. Nitrous oxide typically wears off within minutes and allows you to quickly get back to your day. Oral sedatives might leave you feeling drowsy for a few hours, and it’s wise to plan for downtime after medication. If you undergo IV sedation, expect a longer recovery of at least a day. Most patients can return to their normal activities within 24 hours.
Myth 7: Sedation Is Extremely Expensive
Although sedation raises the price, it’s less expensive than consumers realize. It’s partially covered by many dental insurance policies. It’s also a wise investment if one considers that it can mean fewer visits to the clinic for a complicated treatment that may be prolonged by a nervous patient’s need for time out.
The Truth About Sedation Dentistry
We just shared with you the most prevalent misconceptions about sedation dentistry, and we hope that allays your hesitations about it. The use of sedatives for dental treatment is safe and efficient. It’s a way to experience a comfortable visit to the clinic. Come see us about sedation dentistry at Boise Dentistry Co. Call 208-939-7053.
