Many patients who experience dental anxiety wonder if sedation dentistry will actually put them to sleep during their procedures. The answer depends on the type of sedation used. In most cases, however, you’ll remain awake, just deeply relaxed. At Alta Dental Studio, our sedation dentist in East Vancouver focuses on keeping you calm and comfortable without fully putting you under.
What to Expect During Sedation Dentistry
When you receive sedation, medication is given orally, through inhalation, or intravenously. These medications ease anxiety, dull sensations, and help time pass more quickly, while keeping you alert and able to respond to instructions and communicate with your dentist.
Why It May Feel Like You Were Asleep
Sedation can cause drowsiness and may result in temporary memory loss of the appointment. This is why many patients, even though they were technically conscious, believe they were asleep during their procedures.
Will I Be Completely Unconscious?
General anesthesia is the only sedation method that renders patients completely unconscious. It is not typically used for routine dental care, which employs safer and lighter options, for comfort without full unconsciousness.
Can I Fall Asleep During the Procedure?
Yes. Some patients feel so relaxed that they naturally fall asleep. If that happens, your sedation dentist in Vancouver will gently wake you if needed.
Comfortable Dental Care with Sedation in East Vancouver
If you’re in East Vancouver and want to learn more about Alta Dental Studio and the measures we take to ensure every patient’s relaxation and comfort, please contact Dr. Jason Liu and our friendly, caring team to schedule a consultation.