You’re not alone if you’re scared of the dentist, as fear is very common. Dental anxiety will prevent you from attending your appointments, leading to several problems, all of which can affect your oral and overall health. Visiting your dentist regularly is a must as this will help keep your teeth and gums healthy, but if your fears cause you to cancel or postpone your appointments, sedation dentistry is an option you can consider.
Sedation Dentistry for Dental Anxiety
Sedation will help you relax during your appointments and help manage your dental anxiety, phobia or fear. This means you will no longer feel scared of the dentist as sedation is an effective way to conquer your dental fears, and this is an option you can discuss with your dentist to see if you are a suitable candidate. When stress is eliminated from the equation, you will receive the dental care you need, and your dentist will be able to perform the necessary procedures easily.
Sedation will allow you to have a positive experience and is ideal for patients who suffer from extreme dental anxiety or fear or those who require multiple procedures that must be completed simultaneously. Sedation dentistry is also used when patients need to undergo oral surgery, and local anesthetic is always used regardless of the sedation method.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
There are different types of sedation dentistry, including oral sedation, nitrous oxide and IV sedation. Nitrous oxide is a light form of sedation dentistry and is often referred to as laughing gas inhaled through a face mask, after which the patient will start to feel relaxed. Oral sedation will involve anti-anxiety medication, which will decrease the activity in your brain that controls fear and anxiety, and this is very effective in keeping a patient calm. Oral sedation will prevent nervousness or movement that can disrupt a dentist’s work, and patients will feel calm and relaxed, although you will need someone to drive you home after your appointment.
IV sedation is administered directly into your bloodstream and is a heavier option that only a trained dentist can administer. The level of sedative you receive will be based on your needs, so you may feel sleepy but remain conscious enough to respond to your dentist’s requests. You will not be able to drive yourself home after your appointment, and someone will have to pick you up.
Sedation dentistry works and will help ease your dental fears and anxiety. It is, however, important to note that the effects and success of sedation dentistry vary from one person to another, although most people will feel a lot more relaxed.
At Cygnet Dental, we understand how to help our patients cope with their dental fears or phobias, and we will do everything we can to ensure you have a positive experience.
Not all procedures require sedation—if you’re looking for orthodontic treatment or teeth whitening in Grande Prairie, we would love to help you achieve a healthier smile. If you are looking for a reputable dentist in Grande Prairie, contact Cygnet Dental today at +1 (587) 803-2464.
Also Read: Benefits of Sedation Dentistry: Your Route to Relaxation
