Due to excessive fear or dental anxiety, a sizable portion of Americans avoid getting routine exams at the dentist. For people who are terrified of the dentist, sedation dentistry is a great solution to ensure a secure, anxiety-free dental encounter.

It’s a common misconception that sedation dentistry makes people sleepy. In actuality, the majority of sedatives let the patient remain awake throughout the surgery. Some drugs have drowsiness as a side effect, however nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation solely work to reduce anxiety during the dentist appointment.​

Because most sedatives may be consumed orally, sedation dentistry is widely used. This eliminates the need for injections, anxiety, and pain. Some tranquilizers are so potent that even the sounds and specifics of the treatment cannot be remembered later. Sedation dentistry is the greatest option for both the patient and the dentist because safety and compliance are two crucial parts of treatments.​

No matter the type of sedative, a caregiver must always be present. Driving to or from the appointment is not advised if sedatives are given the night before the dentist appointment.