5 Myths About Sedation Dentistry – Busted!

Most dentists in the United States offer some type of sedation, but there are still some myths about sedation dentistry that are common among patients. Let’s take a look at a few of these myths and discuss why they’re not true. Read on to educate yourself, and learn a bit more about how sedation dentistry works at our office in Oak Creek!

1. All Types Of Sedation Are The Same

This is not true at all! We offer 3 types of sedation at Oak Creek Dental Care, and each one is different.

  • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation – This type of sedation is the lightest, and uses a comfortable nose mask to deliver gas directly to your lungs with no needles or pills required. It makes you feel comfortable, relaxed, and less anxious.
  • Oral conscious sedation – This consists of a few pills taken the night before or the morning of your procedure. Oral conscious sedation will make you feel groggy, and you may fall asleep and might not remember what happens during your procedure, but you will not be unconscious.
  • IV sedation – IV sedation uses the same types of drugs as oral conscious sedation, but they are delivered through a vein instead of orally, so they have stronger effects. 

General anesthesia is also available at some practices. This is a type of hospital sedation that will make you completely unconscious and requires the use of a breathing machine. It’s not common at dental offices, though, as most procedures do not require patients to be completely unconscious. 

2. Sedation Is Too Expensive

This is not true. At Oak Creek Dental Care, we do our best to keep prices under control. Sedation typically does cost an additional fee, but we’ll keep your treatment within your budget. And the comfort offered by sedation during your procedure is with every penny!

3. You Can Only Get Sedation For Major Procedures

Nope! At Oak Creek Dental Care, we don’t just offer sedation for things like dental implants and tooth extractions, but also for treatments like root canals, crown preparation, and even fillings or routine teeth cleanings!

If you think you can benefit from sedation at our office, we’re willing to provide it to you, no matter the specifics of your appointment. This ensures you can always get the care you need, even if you suffer from dental anxiety. 

4. Sedation Is Dangerous

Sedation is not dangerous at all. Dr. Saleki will consult with you to discuss your health, medications and supplements you’re taking, and other information to ensure that you are a good candidate for sedation, and we will monitor you closely throughout the sedation process to ensure your safety at Oak Creek Dental Care. 

5. The After-Effects Of Sedation Last For Days 

This is not true. Laughing gas sedation wears off after about only 5 minutes, so you can get back to your routine right away.

However, the effects of oral conscious sedation and IV sedation usually last about 4-6 hours, though some patients may experience minor side effects for up to 24 hours. You’ll need to plan to take the day off of work if you get oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, and you’ll need someone to drive you to and from our office. 

Contact Our Office For Sedation Dentistry In Oak Creek

Dr. Ehsan Saleki and our team are here to help you get the dental care you need in Oak Creek, South Milwaukee, and Franklin. Whether you have dental anxiety or you’re just nervous about an upcoming dental surgery, we’re here for you. Contact us online or give us a call at (414) 762-9010 to schedule your appointment now.


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