Sedatives and hypnotics are drugs used to induce relaxation in patients who have high levels of anxiety prior to and during dental procedures. These drugs typically may be taken in pill, liquid, injection or inhaled form. They do not relieve pain, but instead help calm patients, making dental work easier for both the patient and the dentist.

Patients who experience anxiety prior to dental work are urged to express these concerns to their dentist. In some cases, the dentist will suggest that the patient take a form of sedative or hypnotic. Minor cases of anxiety usually can be treated with an anti-anxiety medication that is taken in pill form.

Deeper levels of sedation may be required for patients who are especially anxious or for those who will undergo complex procedures. Young children and mentally or physically challenged patients also may need deeper levels of sedation before certain procedures. This type of sedation is often administered either intravenously (I.V.) or is inhaled by the patient through a mask.

Sedatives and hypnotics are usually considered one class of medication. Sedatives can mentally and physically relax the body. Hypnotics may induce sleep. Some medications have both qualities. Sedatives and hypnotics often are given in combination with local anesthesia, which prevents a patient from feeling pain during dental work (e.g., fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions). Many different types of sedatives and hypnotics can be used during dental procedures, including benzodiazepines and barbiturates.

Sedatives and hypnotics used in dental procedures are generally very safe and cause few side effects. However, some patients may experience adverse complications such as headache, drowsiness and impaired performance and judgment. Misuse of some sedatives and hypnotics may cause dependence or be addictive in some patients.

Certain drugs may interact poorly with sedatives and hypnotics and increase the sedative effect of these medications. In particular, patients are urged to avoid use of central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as alcohol or opioid analgesics. Antidepressants, antihistamines and some heartburn medications also interact poorly. Symptoms of overdose can be similar to the medication’s side effects, but are usually more severe.