The dental procedure termed “conscious sedation” doesn’t literally make sense. How can a patient remain conscious and be sedated at the same time? Dental advertisements often refer to this procedure as “twilight sleep” which is supposed to soothe the patient into a calm state of mind during a dental procedure. While patients cannot breathe by themselves or react to questions when under general anesthesia, conscious sedation patients can breathe on their own and respond to instructions from the dentist. Relaxation techniques, or having an open discussion with the dentist about what the procedures could entail alleviate some patients’ fears. But, many people avoid even the most basic dental work because of their fear of discomfort associated with dental treatment. This is the primary reason that dentists have started offering sedation dentistry as a treatment option for fillings, oral surgery, and cleanings.

There are generally three systems by which conscious sedation is achieved - intravenous drugs, oral medicines and inhalation of sedative gases. The type of sedation required depends on the specific dental treatment being administered and the patient’s overall level of comfort, and will be decided in consultation with the dentist. Alternately, a person concerned about the lingering effects of IV or oral medications may opt for the gas, which wears off almost immediately. Dental patients should be completely aware of their own medical histories, and review them with their dentist, before selecting a specific form of sedation, as both the IV and oral medications are not appropriate for everyone.

What are the negative aspects of choosing sedation? Patients who opt for oral or IV sedatives will need someone to accompany them to and from the appointment. For those with needle phobias, IV sedation may not be the wisest choice, because it does require the insertion of a needle into the hand or arm. Oral medication can be administered in a variety of strengths and doses depending on the patient’s needs. It is wise to discuss in detail with the dentist everything related to the treatment before deciding on a method of sedation.