Sedation Dentistry And Dental Anxiety Relief | Jacqueline L. Subka DDS, APC

Published: 11/08/2019

Dental Anxiety: Sedation and Relief
Dental Anxiety affects a vast majority of the population, but often the anxiety stems from misconceptions or dental horror stories that have no facts behind them. Also, some are afraid of dental instruments or the sound of the drill. However, oral health is important, especially because it can affect the overall health of your body. Meaning that when a person’s dental anxiety is so severe it keeps them from the dentist not only are they putting their oral health at risk they are also making themselves vulnerable to other body health issues.

Sedation And Dental Anxiety
Thanks to advancements in sedation dentistry dental anxiety can be considered a thing of the past. Also, it can help patients who are suffering from dental anxiety to relax. When your dental anxiety fears are severe enough you avoid going to the dentist even if you are in pain then your dental anxiety may be getting the best of you. If you are experiencing pain in your mouth, then this is a clear indication that you are having some issues with your oral health. Sedation can be used to help you overcome your severe dental anxiety.

The Different Types of Sedation Dentistry

Local Anesthetic
If a patient is experiencing inflammation in your gums the last thing a patient with dental anxiety wants is to have a dentist examining their mouth when it is already irritated. However, thanks to the use of some local anesthetics a numbing agent can be applied to the inflamed area which will allow the dentist to examine it without causing further discomfort to the patient. This type of sedation is easy to administer and painless.

Oral Sedation
When it comes to oral sedation this is helpful for a patient who is suffering from dental anxiety but doesn’t like needles. This can be administered in the form of a pill. The oral sedative will take about an hour before the appointment to take full effect. However, once it does kick in you can get through your appointment feeling relaxed. Oral Sedation can be used for dental procedures like dental implants and gum recession. Also, once your dental care is completed you can go home and take a small nap to restore meaning minimal down time.

Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous Oxide can be used for patients who suffer from extreme dental anxiety. As long as the patient is able to climb into the chair Dr. Crawford can use Nitrous oxide to help you relax. This odorless laughing gas can help neutralize any pain and can give you a feeling of euphoria. The nitrous oxide can cause the patient to drift off to sleep, but then they will awaken after the procedure feeling alert and free of dental anxiety.

Schedule An Appointment
If you are suffering from dental anxiety and you are experiencing pain it’s highly important that you schedule an appointment with your dentist. Also, sedation can help relieve you of this dental anxiety so don’t hesitate.