I have horrible dental anxiety. Recently, I’ve been reading about sedation dentistry. I’m hoping it’s like what happens at surgery, where they give you an IV and you’re out. But, some of what I’ve read says conscious sedation. That sounds scary. What is it?
Alysia – MN
Alysia,
While most dentists who do sedation will do oral conscious sedation, only a handful do IV sedation. However, don’t discount the conscious sedation. I know the conscious part may frighten you, but believe me when I tell you it is completely pain free.
While you will remain conscious, so you can answer questions or even talk to the dentist if you want, many patients fall asleep and some don’t even remember the appointment at all.
One area where it is like surgery though is your need for a companion. You will be in no fit state to drive yourself home. You’ll also want whomever drives you home to stay with you for a few hours.
It will change your view of dentistry.
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