Sedatives and hypnotics used in dental procedures are generally safe when used properly and usually cause few side effects. This is especially true of nitrous oxide. Patients who receive nitrous oxide sometimes experience a headache following their dental procedure. However, this typically can be avoided by administering oxygen to the patient for several minutes following the procedure. This helps to clear the nitrous oxide from the system.

Benzodiazepines are generally considered to be safer than barbiturates. For this reason, benzodiazepines have become the second-choice sedative (following nitrous oxide) for many dentists.

Although side effects are rare, they sometimes do occur. Benzodiazepines may cause temporary inflammation of a vein (thrombophlebitis) when administered intravenously. These drugs also can cause some loss of memory. This typically is limited to events that occur after the drug is administered (retrograde amnesia).

Barbiturates have been associated with certain side effects, including a “hangover” type of effect afterwards, drowsiness and impaired performance and judgment. Barbiturates are not recommended for people with asthma. Misuse of barbiturates may create dependence or be addictive in some patients. Overdose of these medications can lead to respiratory arrest.

Parents or caregivers of children who receive sedation for a dental procedure are advised to keep the child at home for the rest of the day after the procedure.

Other potential side effects associated with use of sedatives and hypnotics include:

• Changes in appetite
• Changes in urination
• Constipation and diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Vertigo
• Vision disturbances
• Vomiting

Sedatives and hypnotics such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates may cause birth defects and are known to pass into breast milk. As a result, women who are pregnant or nursing generally should not use these drugs. Nitrous oxide has not been studied in pregnant women, but has been associated with birth defects in animal studies.