There is an answer to this problem and it is called conscious sedation.
Conscious sedation is used to provide sedation and pain control during medical or dental procedures.
Conscious sedation is routinely used for medical procedures such as cardiac catheterization, upper and lower bowel exams, dental procedures and outpatient surgeries. When conscious sedation is used, the patient is aware of his or her surroundings but you don't care much about them. You are not under a general anesthetic. You are usually very sleepy, but can be easily awakened with touch or talking. The patient may feel like their speech is slurred.