Whether you suffer from dental anxiety or need a root canal, you don’t have to worry about a stressful day in the dentist’s chair. Dental sedation can help you sit back and relax. Despite its benefits, you might have a few concerns. Let’s face it, there’s a lot of false information about it, but don’t let that stand in the way of getting the comfortable dental care you need. Here are the facts behind 5 common myths about dental sedation.
1. Sedation Dentistry is Reserved for Oral Surgery
It’s true that dental sedation is recommended for oral surgery, but it can be used for many other situations too. Sedation dentistry can help patients with various unique circumstances, including:
- Dental Anxiety
- Negative Past Dental Experiences
- Difficulty Holding Jaw Open
- Difficulty Staying in One Position
- Require Multiple or Lengthy Dental Procedures
2. There’s Only One Type of Sedation
Contrary to what you might have heard, there are several types of dental sedation, like:
- Nitrous Oxide: Better known as “laughing gas,” the inhaled sedative doesn’t render you unconscious. You’ll be deeply relaxed until the sedation is stopped. Within a few minutes, of the nasal mask being removed you’ll feel completely normal.
- Oral Conscious: A prescribed medication is taken before your appointment to help you relax. You may partially doze off, but you can still respond to your dentist’s instructions. It can take a few hours for the effects to wear off.
3. Sedation Dentistry is Unsafe
Your dentist will always review your medical history, including any medications you take, to look for anything concerning. Dental sedation is safe for most patients with good overall health. Nitrous oxide is generally the safest, even for children.
4. Dental Sedation is Expensive
Dental insurance classifies sedation as a luxury; however, if it is necessary for treatment, your benefits may cover some of the costs. After meeting your annual deductible, your insurance might be able to pay a portion of the expenses. You can also use third-party financing for any out-of-pocket expenses, like CareCredit.
5. There’s an Age Limit for Dental Sedation
Your age doesn’t matter when determining your candidacy for dental sedation. Instead, your dentist will consider your health history and situation to create a safe treatment plan.
Comfortable dental care is possible with sedation dentistry. Your dentist will provide you with the facts about sedation to make the best decision for your dental health.
About Dr. Kyle Williams
Dr. Williams earned a degree in genetics before achieving his dental degree at the University of Buffalo in New York. He has regularly continued his training in various specialties, like cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, oral surgery, and sedation. He is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. Request an appointment through his website or contact his office at (931) 548-6154.