Sedation dentistry uses medication to help people who are anxious and fearful about going to the dentist relax during dental procedures. It's sometimes referred to as "sleep dentistry," although that's not entirely accurate. You're usually awake. Sedation can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning.

You may also need a local anesthetic -- numbing medication at the site where the dentist is working -- to relieve pain if the procedure causes any discomfort.