You don’t need to be a dentist to know that a lot of people feel anxious about dental care. Thankfully, sedation dentistry offers a safe and reliable way to help calm even the most frayed nerves. But does it cause you to fall asleep during appointments? It’s a question many people ask, and you’ll find the answer along with many other common queries below.
Will Dental Sedation Put Me to Sleep?
In most cases, no, dental sedation will not put you to sleep. Dentists use what is called “conscious sedation,” which is exactly like it sounds. Whether it’s nitrous oxide, medication, or even IV sedation, the idea isn’t to “knock you out,” but rather ensure you stay calm and comfortable. Some patients do end up falling asleep, but this is just a happy side effect!
Can I Get Dental Sedation for Checkups & Cleanings?
Many people assume that dental sedation is reserved for big procedures, like tooth extraction, dental implants, or full-mouth rehabilitation. While it can be extremely helpful for surgical or complex procedures, sedation can be used with routine care as well. It allows many patients to receive preventive treatment so they don’t need the more involved procedures in the future, which is beneficial for their health and wallet.
Is Dental Sedation Covered by My Dental Insurance?
Dental sedation is typically not covered by dental insurance. This is because it is considered “extra” and not essential to the completion of the procedure like anesthetic. The terms of each policy are different, but most of the time, a person will be expected to pay out-of-pocket. Thankfully, dental sedation isn’t very expensive, and most patients say the peace of mind and experience are well worth it.
Will I Be “Loopy” After Dental Sedation?
You might have seen videos online of people acting weird following dental sedation, saying silly things or sharing their deepest thoughts. Thankfully, this is an extremely rare occurrence. Most patients feel a little groggy after sedation, but that’s it! The clips on social media are often staged, or the person just underwent a complicated procedure that required extensive sedation. Even then, this “loss of control” happens so infrequently that most people don’t need to worry about it.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Kirk wants you to not stress about going to the dentist anymore. An OU College of Dentistry graduate, he’s proudly cared for Oklahoma City families for more than 30 years. He and our team offer multiple sedation options and even partner with a licensed anesthesiologist to ensure a seamless and safe experience for our patients.
To book an appointment at Grand Dental Studio, click here, or call our friendly team at (405) 848-3719 if you have any other questions about sedation.