Does Dental Sedation Put You To Sleep? 

Going to the dentist can be a daunting experience for some people. So much so that about 15% of people in the United States avoid getting dental treatment because of their extreme anxiety. 

Fortunately, there is a solution: dental sedation. 

We here at Coronado Dental Associates use nitrous oxide to help our patients feel relaxed and get stress-free treatment. 

If you've never used dental sedation before, you may have numerous questions. Do I need it? Is it safe? And will I fall asleep while under sedation? 

Here are your answers. 

Who Needs Dental Sedation?

A Coronado dentist may recommend dental sedation for a variety of reasons. As mentioned already, if you suffer from dentophobia then sedation is an excellent way to manage your anxiety and get the treatment you need. 

Sedation can also be useful if you require extensive dental procedures that require you to sit still for long periods of time. 

Children can also be suitable candidates for sedation. The dentist may recommend using laughing gas to help the child feel calm and receive the treatment in a stress-free environment. 

Types of Dental Sedation and What to Expect

There are different types of dental sedation available, and the type used will depend on your individual needs and the dental procedure being performed. 

• Nitrous Oxide: Also known as laughing gas, this is the mildest form of sedation. It induces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria, and the effects wear off immediately after you stop receiving the gas. 
• ‍Oral Sedation: This type of sedation is administered in pill form, usually taken an hour before the procedure. It may make you feel groggy and sleepy and you may not remember the procedure after it's over.
• ‍IV Sedation: As the name suggests, intravenous (IV) sedation is administered through a needle. You will be in a state of deep relaxation but will still be conscious and able to respond to the dentist's instructions. 
• ‍General Anesthesia: This is the deepest form of sedation and is only used for complex or lengthy procedures. You will be completely unconscious and will not remember the procedure. 

Does Dental Sedation Put You To Sleep?

As you can see, the answer to this question depends on the type of sedation used. 

Most types of sedation will induce a feeling of relaxation, but you will remain conscious and able to respond to the dentist's instructions. Of course, the effects can depend from person to person too. While most people won't fall asleep while sedated, some may be so relaxed that they might snooze a little during the procedure. 

Looking for Stress and Pain-Free Dental Treatment? Call Us Now! 

At Coronado Dental Associates, you can rest assured that you will feel relaxed and comfortable in the dentist's chair. We use nitrous oxide combined with local anesthesia to ensure that our patients won't feel any pain during their treatment. 

Call us now at (619) 435-0844 or get in touch with us online to book your appointment. 

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