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.
You might be one of those people that are so anxious about a dental visit that your teeth are now in poor condition. Unfortunately, facing the dentist with neglected teeth only adds to the problem for many. You don't have to suffer from missing teeth, pain, and other dental issues because of your anxiety. Read on and learn more about sedation dentistry, which is a whole new way of looking at a dental patient's discomfort and concerns.
Why So Nervous?
There are as many reasons for having dental anxiety as there are dental offices. They can vary from those that suffer from general anxiety disorders to those who suffered from a traumatic experience in the past. Other common reasons to shy away from the dental chair include:
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Dental patients have always been able to get anesthesia for dental procedures, but sedation dentistry takes relaxation to a new level. It all starts with the attitude of the dentist and the staff at the office. These dental offices are focused on ensuring that patients feel cared for and that their fears are nothing to overlook. Even dental offices that don't necessarily advertise themselves as being sympathetic to dental anxiety have begun to recognize and make allowances for those who are just too afraid to go to the dentist. Some common methods used to help patients feel more comfortable include:
Sedation Choices
Depending on your comfort level, a number of relaxation and sedation choices exist. Many dentists already prescribe anti-anxiety medications that can be taken an hour or so prior to the appointment. Even for a simple cleaning service, some patients need relaxation meds. Nitrous oxide makes the patient calm and relaxed during a procedure. In some cases, total sleep is necessary for both the patient's comfort and for an extensive or invasive procedure, and that is when intravenous medication is used.
Find out more by speaking with a sedation dentistry office near you.
Share18 October 2021