Several years ago I decided to take a trip to the dentist after skipping multiple appointments for over 15 years. I truly had a dental anxiety and had a hard time getting over my fears. Thankfully, my dental visit went smoothly with only four cavities identified. What I did find from this dental visit was that there was a great deal of new information and technology that I had been missing out on. Laser-based technology and digital imaging are just a few examples. With this blog, I want you to understand that you can get over your fears and learn about this new technology like I did, so enjoy the information.
There's no doubt about it; there are people that are driven to full blown anxiety when going to the dentist. If you are deathly afraid of the dentist, it is important that you deal with your anxiety so that your oral health does not suffer. Thankfully, there are some options your dentist will have available that will help you get through an appointment.
Sedation dentistry can help take away some of the edge that you experience when going to the dentist. It is helpful to those who are afraid of the dentist, have a strong gag reflex, or those with a physical handicap. It is also helpful for major procedures such as root canals, bridges, and extractions. Sedation can be quite effective when it comes to comforting you during a dental procedure. However, you will need to disclose all of your medical history, including medication you are taking, before you will be given sedation medication.
Not only is sedation available to fearful patients, but there are several options when it comes to administration. Here are the typical ways to receive dental sedation:
Inhaled Sedation
Nitrous oxide is a commonly used dental sedation. Typically known as laughing gas, the nitrous oxide is combined with oxygen that flows through a mask placed on your face. This will help you feel calm and help you remain relaxed during your procedure. Nitrous oxide is very mild and does not put you completely asleep. You will still be able to communicate with the dentist. After the procedure is over, the nitrous oxide will be turned off. The oxygen will be left on for a few minutes to help get the remainder of the gas out of your system.
Oral Sedation
Another commonly used sedation is given orally. It is typically given in pill form and is provided to you before your appointment. You will take it at home before you come to the dentist, so be sure to have someone available to drive you to the dental office. You may fall asleep, but it will be very light and you will be easy to awaken.
General Anesthesia Sedation
If you need major dental work, your dentist may opt to place you under general anesthesia. This will need to be done in a clinical setting, sometimes even in an outpatient hospital facility. An anesthesiologist will be on hand to administer the medication and monitor you throughout the procedure. You will be completely unconscious until the doctor wakes you up after your procedure is over.
Do not neglect your teeth because you have a phobia. You may benefit from sedation dentistry if you don't think you can get through and appointment without help. To learn more, contact a company like Little Peoples Dentistry.
Share9 March 2017
