Quick Facts About Sedation Dentistry
- Types: Oral Conscious Sedation (pill) and IV Sedation
- Benefits: Less anxiety during your dental work
- Possible Side Effects: Temporary fatigue and grogginess; possibility of dry mouth, headaches, and dizziness that should subside within a few hours
- Cost: Dependent on the type of sedation and whether insurance provides coverage
At Smile by Design, your comfort is our highest priority. To help make your dental experience as pleasant as possible, we offer advanced sedation dentistry techniques designed to put you at ease. Dental anxiety and fear associated with the dentist is very common, but this condition shouldn’t stop you from achieving healthy teeth and gums as well as a beautiful smile. Sedation allows our experienced dentist, Dr. Donian Shen, to work more effectively while you relax.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses sedative medications to bring about deep relaxation or sleep so that dental treatments can be completed without anxiety, fear, or discomfort. We offer two techniques: oral conscious sedation and IV sedation. Oral sedation allows you to remain conscious but calmer during treatment. IV sedation is also often called sleep dentistry, as you can essentially go to sleep and wake up with the procedure(s) complete.
What Are the Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?
Using sedation techniques during dental treatments offers a wide range of benefits. Sedation dentistry can be useful even if you feel comfortable at the dentist. If you have any of the following challenges, we may be able to help:
- Dental anxiety
- Fear of needles or injections
- Severe gag reflex
- Disabilities or special needs
- Time constraints
- Jaw soreness
- Back or neck limitations
- Difficulty getting numb
- Extreme pain sensitivity
- Need for extensive or complex dental work
Are There Side Effects of Sedation Dentistry?
Fatigue and grogginess are the temporary side effects you are most likely to feel after sedation dentistry. As the sedative medication leaves your system, these side effects typically fade within hours. Your memory of treatment may be hazy or entirely absent, which is a normal response to these types of sedation. Less common side effects can sometimes include lightheadedness, dizziness, headaches, dry mouth, or nausea. While these reactions are considered rare, they are not abnormal and should resolve quickly on their own. We encourage patients to call the practice at any time with questions or concerns.
Will I Be Able to Drive Myself Home After Sedation Dentistry?
The lingering effects of oral conscious and IV sedation make it necessary to have a friend or family member ready to drive you home after your appointment. You may also require a bit of assistance upon arriving home and getting settled. We recommend clearing your schedule and resting comfortably until the sedative has completely worn off.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation dentistry is considered very safe when administered by trained professionals using appropriate monitoring and screening protocols. At Smile By Design, your health and safety are our top priorities. Before recommending any form of sedation, Dr. Shen conducts a review of your medical history, current medications, and any past experiences with anesthesia to determine the most suitable option for your needs.
During your appointment, advanced monitoring equipment is used to track vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Our experienced team remains by your side throughout the procedure to help ensure your comfort and respond promptly to any changes.
Both oral conscious sedation and IV sedation are designed to create a controlled state of relaxation rather than complete unconsciousness. Because these medications are precisely dosed and supervised, complications are rare. Most patients experience only temporary drowsiness afterward and return to normal activity within several hours.
While sedation dentistry is not appropriate for every individual, most healthy adults—and even many patients with anxiety or medical conditions—can safely benefit from these techniques. Dr. Shen will discuss your options in detail and help you make an informed, confident decision about your care.
How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
The cost for your sedation dentistry treatment plan will be based on your specific needs. Prior to treatment, we will need to complete a thorough medical evaluation and a discussion of your concerns before offering either oral or IV sedation. Consultations with Dr. Shen are free, and a detailed estimate for your proposed dental treatment and sedation services will be provided at the end of the appointment. The type of sedation and the length of time it is administered are typically the most significant factors to consider when calculating price.
We want all patients to have access to the dental care and sedation services they desire. If you are interested in exploring dental financing options to make paying for treatment more convenient and affordable, a knowledgeable member of our office team can provide you with helpful guidance.
Will Insurance Cover Sedation Dentistry?
Insurance coverage for sedation dentistry varies by plan, provider, and type of sedation. While some insurance plans may cover certain types of sedation for certain dental procedures, others might only offer partial coverage or none at all. It’s important to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details related to sedation dentistry.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Can you be completely asleep during dental treatment?
While sedation dentistry at our practice does not typically involve full general anesthesia, IV sedation can put you into such a deep state of relaxation that many patients feel as though they slept through the entire procedure. You remain responsive to gentle cues and breathing on your own, but you are unlikely to remember the treatment once the sedation wears off.
What does sedation feel like?
Most patients describe sedation as feeling calm, heavy, warm, or pleasantly disconnected from their surroundings. You may feel drowsy, less aware of the passage of time, and largely unbothered by sounds or sensations. With oral conscious sedation, you remain awake but deeply relaxed; with IV sedation, the experience can feel more like drifting in and out of a light sleep.
How long does dental sedation last?
The duration depends on the type of sedation used. Oral sedation typically remains in your system for several hours after treatment, while IV sedation can take the remainder of the day to fully dissipate. Dr. Shen will provide personalized instructions on what to expect and how to care for yourself afterward.
Can I drive after sedation dentistry?
No. Because sedative medications can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, you must have a responsible adult drive you home after your appointment. We recommend arranging childcare or clearing your schedule so you can rest comfortably until the effects completely wear off.
Contact Smile by Design
For more information about our sedation dentistry options, or if you would like to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Shen, contact us today.*