Don't Fear The Dentist: Using Sedation Dentistry To Conquer Dental Anxiety

Dentist Blog

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:

• Worry about what could happen during a procedure
• Sensitive gag reflex

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:

• Appointments that introduce the patient to the dentist and staff. No procedures or exams are performed during these get-to-know-you appointments
• Time spent discussing relaxation methods and medications with the patient
• Making the patient feel more in control while at the appointment by asking for feedback and creating hand signals to control the actions of the dentist or hygienist
• Cutting down on the number of procedures being performed so the time in the chair is reduced considerably

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.

18 October 2021