Sedation is widely used, but there are still plenty of misunderstandings about it. Here are some of the most common.
Myth: sedation is the same as being put to sleep
Sedation is not a general anaesthetic. You are deeply relaxed and drowsy, usually breathing on your own, and the depth can be adjusted throughout. Many patients remember little afterwards, but it is a different state from full unconsciousness.
Myth: sedation is only for very nervous people
Anxiety is a common reason for sedation, but it is also used for long procedures, a strong gag reflex, children, patients with special needs and procedures that are uncomfortable when awake.
Myth: you need to go to hospital for sedation
Many procedures can be done with sedation in your dentist’s or doctor’s rooms. Joburg Sedation is a mobile service that brings all the monitoring and emergency equipment to the practice.
Myth: you can drive yourself home if you feel fine
Even if you feel alert, sedation can affect your judgement and reactions for hours. You must have a responsible adult take you home.
Myth: sedation always costs more than theatre
In-rooms sedation avoids hospital and theatre fees, so it is often the more affordable option, especially when medical aid does not cover theatre.
Myth: anyone can give sedation
Safe sedation needs a trained practitioner, proper patient assessment, continuous monitoring and emergency equipment. Dr Khan holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Sedation and Pain Management, follows SASA guidelines and always works in a team of two.
Talk to Dr Khan
If you have questions about sedation for your procedure, call or WhatsApp Dr Khan on 071 646 1513, or get in touch here. Dentists and doctors can also book a sedation team for their rooms.
This article is general information and not a substitute for medical advice. Dr Khan assesses every patient individually before sedation.