What Does Sedation Dentistry Feel Like?

If you’ve never had sedation dentistry in St. Paul, MN, you may be curious about this service offered by your dentist. Sedation is a tool used by dentists for patients who request it. It helps to make the dental treatment process go more smoothly and is especially helpful for patients who have some anxiety about dentist visits in general or for those who will be undergoing extensive treatments. It’s simply a way to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for people undergoing dental treatment.

Different Kinds of Sedation

St. Anthony Park Dental Care has three kinds of sedation: nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, oral sedation, and IV sedation. But the differences between these three types have mostly to do with the way they’re administered, not in the way that they feel.

What Does Sedation Dentistry Feel Like?

The experience of sedation dentistry is similar to the way you feel when you’re just falling asleep. You’re still awake and aware, but you’re hyper-relaxed. All the muscles in your body are relaxed, and you feel very comfortable physically, mentally, and emotionally. Many people describe the feeling as similar to how they feel when mediating, deep in thought, or engrossed in a really good book.

You’re completely aware of what is happening during this period, but it doesn’t cause you worry or anxiety. You can understand and respond to requests from your dentist, but the whole experience feels somewhat distant. Afterward, you’ll remember everything, but no worries will be associated with the treatment. Depending on how you respond to sedation dentistry, you may want someone else to drive you home since there can be some lingering feelings of sleepiness.

Consider sedation dentistry if you’ve been putting off dental treatment due to anxiety. Contact your dentist in St. Paul, MN, to book your appointment today!