Tag: Sedation levels

An American Dental Association survey found that 70% of dental practices using sedation choose nitrous oxide [1.5.4]. Commonly known as 'laughing gas,' a frequent question is, **is nitrous oxide considered deep sedation?** The answer is no; it is classified as a minimal sedative that induces a state of conscious relaxation [1.3.1, 1.3.2].

The risk of dying from anesthesia is very low, estimated at about 1 in 100,000 to 200,000 cases for healthy patients [1.10.1]. Understanding your options is key, but are IV sedation and general anesthesia the same? They are fundamentally different.

Studies estimate that dental anxiety affects approximately 36% of the population, with 12% suffering from extreme dental fear [1.9.1]. Contrary to popular belief, the answer to 'Does inhalation sedation put you to sleep?' is no; it keeps you awake and relaxed [1.2.1, 1.2.3].

Accidental awareness under general anesthesia is rare, occurring in about 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 patients [1.10.4]. Understanding **what's the difference between general anesthesia and twilight sedation** can help clarify the distinct levels of consciousness and risks involved in each.