Going to the dentist can trigger anxiety for many people, especially when complex procedures are involved. For patients with severe dental fear or those undergoing oral surgery, being “put under” can offer a sense of relief and comfort. But what does it actually mean when a dentist puts you under? What is the procedure called? And is it safe?
This comprehensive guide from Asctorino will explore everything you need to know about dental sedation, what it’s officially called when a dentist puts you under, the types of sedation used, and what patients should expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What Is It Called When a Dentist Puts You Under?
When a dentist “puts you under,” the official term is general anesthesia. It’s a form of sedation that renders the patient completely unconscious and unresponsive during a dental procedure. General anesthesia is typically reserved for complex oral surgeries or for patients who cannot tolerate treatment while awake due to extreme anxiety, special healthcare needs, or other medical conditions.
Not all dental sedation involves full unconsciousness. In fact, there are different levels of sedation, ranging from mild relaxation to deep sleep. Each level has its own purpose, method of administration, and safety guidelines.
At Asctorino, we help patients understand the options available so they can make informed decisions about their oral health and comfort.
Different Types of Dental Sedation
Dental sedation can be broken into four main categories. While “being put under” usually refers to general anesthesia, many patients opt for milder forms of sedation for routine procedures.
1. Minimal Sedation (Anxiolysis)
This type of sedation helps you feel relaxed but fully awake. It’s often administered through nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) or oral medication. You remain conscious and can respond to the dentist’s instructions.
Best For: Routine cleanings, minor fillings, or patients with mild anxiety.
2. Moderate Sedation (Conscious Sedation)
You’re still awake, but your memory of the procedure might be hazy. Speech may be slurred, and you’ll feel drowsy. This type of sedation is usually given via an oral sedative or intravenous (IV) medication.
Best For: Root canals, extractions, or patients with moderate dental anxiety.
3. Deep Sedation
You’re on the edge of consciousness and may not remember much of the procedure. You won’t be able to respond to most stimuli, but you’re not entirely unconscious. Deep sedation is administered via IV and monitored closely.
Best For: Complex dental surgeries or very anxious patients.
4. General Anesthesia
You’re completely unconscious, cannot be awakened easily, and will not feel or remember anything during the procedure. This form of sedation must be administered by an anesthesiologist or trained dental professional in a controlled environment.
Best For: Wisdom tooth extraction, jaw surgery, or patients with severe dental phobia.
Asctorino recommends discussing all sedation options with your provider to ensure your safety, comfort, and the success of your dental treatment.
Why Do Dentists Use General Anesthesia?
Dentists use general anesthesia for several reasons:
To perform invasive oral surgeries such as impacted wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, or jaw realignment.
To manage extreme dental anxiety or dental phobia, which can prevent patients from receiving necessary care.
To treat patients with special needs or medical conditions that make traditional dental procedures challenging.
To handle cases involving children who are unable to cooperate for longer procedures.
General anesthesia ensures that the patient remains still, pain-free, and unaware during the procedure. This helps the dentist work more efficiently and safely.
Is Being Put Under at the Dentist Safe?
Yes, when administered by trained professionals, dental sedation—including general anesthesia—is safe. Dental offices that offer general anesthesia are equipped with advanced monitoring equipment and staffed by professionals trained in emergency protocols. The risks are minimal when proper screening and monitoring are in place.
At Asctorino, we prioritize patient safety and work with providers who meet or exceed national sedation safety guidelines.
Before receiving any form of sedation, you’ll undergo a health evaluation, which may include:
Medical history review
Current medications
Allergies
Blood pressure and heart rate checks
During the procedure, your vital signs are continuously monitored. Afterward, recovery is supervised to ensure you regain full consciousness and stability before being discharged.
Preparing for General Anesthesia at the Dentist
If you are scheduled to be “put under” for a dental procedure, preparation is key to ensure your safety and comfort. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Fasting Instructions: You’ll be asked not to eat or drink for at least 6–8 hours before your appointment.
Pre-Procedure Evaluation: The dental team will assess your health status and confirm your suitability for anesthesia.
Transportation: You must arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home. You will not be allowed to operate a vehicle after general anesthesia.
Post-Procedure Recovery: You may feel groggy, dizzy, or nauseous for a few hours. Full recovery usually occurs within 24 hours.
Asctorino encourages all patients to ask questions and follow all pre- and post-procedure instructions carefully.
Who Administers General Anesthesia in Dentistry?
Not all dentists are licensed to administer general anesthesia. It is typically provided by:
Dental anesthesiologists
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
Certified nurse anesthetists
Medical anesthesiologists (in hospital settings)
These professionals are trained in anesthesia delivery, patient monitoring, and emergency response. If general anesthesia is recommended for your dental procedure, make sure you’re working with a provider who has the proper certifications and experience.
Advantages of Being Put Under at the Dentist
For many patients, general anesthesia offers significant advantages:
No awareness or memory of the procedure
Complete elimination of pain
No movement, allowing precise surgical work
Reduced fear and stress
Ability to complete multiple procedures in one visit
Patients with extreme dental anxiety often report that general anesthesia allows them to finally receive the care they’ve been avoiding for years.
At Asctorino, we believe no one should skip dental care because of fear. Sedation dentistry offers life-changing solutions for patients who have struggled with dental phobia.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Like any medical procedure, general anesthesia carries some risks. These include:
Nausea or vomiting after the procedure
Drowsiness or confusion
Dry mouth or sore throat
Allergic reaction (rare)
Breathing difficulties (very rare in healthy patients)
These side effects are usually temporary and manageable. Your dental team will provide instructions for recovery and whom to contact if you have concerns after the procedure.
Alternatives to General Anesthesia
If you’re nervous about going under, there are several sedation alternatives that may be appropriate:
Nitrous oxide for mild anxiety and shorter treatments
Oral sedatives taken an hour before your procedure
IV sedation for deeper relaxation without full unconsciousness
A detailed consultation with your dentist will help you determine the best option for your needs.
At Asctorino, we encourage open conversations between patients and their providers to find the safest and most comfortable treatment path.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is it called when a dentist puts you to sleep?
It is called general anesthesia. It puts you into a deep, unconscious state where you will not feel or remember anything from the procedure.
2. Is dental general anesthesia safe?
Yes, when administered by trained professionals and with proper patient screening, general anesthesia is safe and effective.
3. Can I request to be put under for a dental procedure?
Yes, but it depends on the procedure, your medical history, and your dentist’s capabilities. Not all dentists offer general anesthesia, so consult with a sedation specialist if necessary.
4. What are the side effects of being put under?
Side effects may include drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth, and confusion for a few hours after waking. Most people recover fully within 24 hours.
5. How long does dental general anesthesia last?
The duration of general anesthesia depends on the procedure but typically lasts from 30 minutes to a few hours. Recovery begins shortly after the procedure ends.
6. Can children be put under for dental work?
Yes. In some cases, general anesthesia is used for children who need extensive dental work or who cannot cooperate during the procedure due to age or special needs.
Final Thoughts
So, what is it called when a dentist puts you under? It’s known as general anesthesia, a medically supervised state of unconsciousness that allows patients to undergo complex or anxiety-inducing dental procedures safely and pain-free.
Sedation dentistry has transformed the way many people approach oral healthcare. From easing anxiety to enabling complicated surgeries, sedation plays a crucial role in modern dentistry. Whether you need a simple filling or oral surgery, understanding your sedation options can help you feel more confident and prepared.
At Asctorino, we believe every patient deserves access to safe, effective, and comfortable dental care. If you’re considering dental sedation, talk with a provider about your options and medical history to find the solution that best fits your needs.