Tag: Sedation dentistry

With the use of procedural sedation for medical procedures rising significantly over the last two decades [1.9.1], more patients have questions about the recovery. So, what's it like waking up from IV sedation? Expect a gradual return to awareness, often with little to no memory of your procedure.

For intravenous (IV) twilight sedation, many patients report feeling the effects *immediately* after the medication is injected into a vein. The rapid onset of IV-administered medication is a key benefit of this type of conscious sedation, making the patient feel calm, relaxed, and drowsy almost instantly.

According to the American Dental Association, nitrous oxide (or 'laughing gas') is a long-standing primary means of sedation used by dentists for many years. Understanding the options available is key, so if you're wondering, "what drug do dentists use to sedate you?" this guide will provide clarity on the different types and levels of sedation available to ensure your comfort during dental procedures.

Over 36% of people in the U.S. feel anxious about going to the dentist, often stemming from a fear of pain. For those considering oral sedation, a common concern is whether they will feel pain during the procedure.

When properly administered by a trained professional, twilight sedation, combined with a local anesthetic, is designed to prevent pain. Patients frequently experience a deep sense of relaxation and have little to no memory of the procedure, effectively addressing the concern: Does twilight sedation hurt?.

The gag reflex is a natural protective response designed to prevent foreign objects from entering the airway. For individuals with a sensitive or hyperactive gag response, healthcare providers frequently use targeted medications to help manage it. So, what numbing agents are used for gag reflex control?

An American Dental Association survey revealed that 70% of dental practices using sedation choose nitrous oxide [1.3.2]. When considering medical or dental procedures, many patients ask: **which is safer, laughing gas or anesthesia?** The answer depends entirely on the individual patient and the procedure's complexity.

First synthesized in 1772, nitrous oxide, or "laughing gas," has been a medical staple for over 150 years [1.9.1, 1.2.3]. The question 'Why is laughing gas no longer used?' reflects a shift, not an abandonment, driven by new research and alternative sedation methods [1.2.1, 1.2.6].

Surveys in some European countries have found that between 10 and 20% of young adults have tried nitrous oxide [1.2.1]. The answer to **Is laughing gas nitrous oxide?** is yes; it's a compound used for both medical sedation and, increasingly, recreation [1.2.1].

According to a 2019 national survey, 4.6% of Americans aged 12 or older reported misusing nitrous oxide in their lifetime [1.11.1]. The critical question remains: is nitrous oxide safe? The answer depends entirely on the context of its use.