Dispelling Myths About Sedation Dentistry

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By WM Dentistry of Waco

If you’ve ever undergone dental surgeries, you might have been sedated to keep you calm and stop you from moving. Dental sedation helps patients overcome dental anxiety and keeps them comfortable during procedures. But like other dental treatments, sedation dentistry is also wrapped in misconceptions. If you pay no attention to busting those myths, they might cloud your judgment and hinder you from enjoying its benefits. 

This blog is here to unwrap common myths about sedation dentistry. It’s time to make informed choices for your dental health.

Myth 1: You Only Need Oral Sedation for Major Surgeries
The most common myth about sedation dentistry is that you need oral sedation only during critical surgical procedures. But that’s far from the truth! Dental sedation helps anxious patients relax during routine treatments like cleanings or fillings. Any sudden movements, even during these minor treatments, might cause injury to the patients. 

Myth 2: Sedation Puts Patients to Sleep

Many believe sedation dentistry and general anesthesia are the same which breeds this misconception. While sedation might involve complete unconsciousness based on the extent of the surgery, oral or nitrous oxide sedation keeps patients awake but deeply relaxed. So your visits to the dentist become stress-free.

Myth 3: Sedation Dentistry Is Unsafe for Children
Dental sedation is made for both kids and adults. If you’re a parent worried about sedation safety, get the procedure done under licensed dental professionals in Waco. Dentists follow strict guidelines during the sedation process to ensure child safety. 

Myth 4: Only Patients with Severe Anxiety Need Sedation
Sedation dentistry is about keeping the patient relaxed during the dental treatment. It’s for everyone who struggles with sensory sensitivities, finds it difficult to sit still for an extended period, or requires extensive dental work. 

Myth 5: Recovery from Sedation Takes Too Long
There are a lot of sedation options available. How quickly a patient recovers his senses depends on the sedation type. While nitrous oxide wears off in a few minutes, some oral sedation might take 2 to 8 hours to wear off. So patients can resume daily activities soon after the procedure. 

Myth 6: Sedation Increases Treatment Costs Significantly
One of the most common myths about sedation dentistry is sedation adds extra expenses to the medical bills. But that’s not the whole truth! You can talk to your dental office for budget-friendly sedation options. It lowers your treatment cost and even your insurance plans may also cover part of the cost.

Myth 7: Sedation is for Everyone

Not true! While oral sedation is a safe option for almost everyone, pregnant women or women breastfeeding kids must not go under sedation procedure. That’s why it’s a must to consult a professional to get advice for oral sedation. Dentists can check every factor to choose the right sedation for patients. 


Dispersing myths about sedation dentistry dispels fears and promotes better dental care choices. Sedation dentistry provides stress-free, safe, and effective treatment for everyone. Contact our dental office in Waco today and schedule a consultation for solutions.

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