I occasionally visit the Methodist Center at Century Plaza near Clairmont and I-85. The Global Business Center is located catty-corner from the complex’s entrance. The multi-company building features a large sign advertising: “REAL ESTATE – LAW – ACCOUNTING – SEDATION DENTISTRY.”

The last advertisement always catches my attention. I do not know the specifics of Sedation Dentistry, but it sounds like something worth pursuing. I suspect that a drug-induced torpor might enhance any dental procedure.

I don’t fear dentists exactly, but I highly respect anyone putting pointy objects and whirring drills into my mouth. A six-month cleaning tests my pain tolerance. When the tech says, “This might pinch a bit,” I hear the person say, “Or it might feel like a mule kicked you.”

My current dentist does not provide generalized sedation. I’m tempted to change providers to experience this wonderful practice.  

An anti-drug campaign of the 1980s encouraged teens to “JUST SAY NO!”  Nancy Reagan didn’t realize that NO stood for for Nitrous Oxide.

My message is “DON’T DO DRUGS.”

But.

I don’t think dental sedation counts. As for me and my house, I say NO.