If the mere thought of visiting the dentist stirs up feelings of fear or anxiety, you’re not alone. But there is good news. Sedation dentistry is a great way to beat those feelings. Let’s take a look at what sedation dentistry is and how choosing it can be beneficial to patients just like you.
Overcoming Dental Anxiety
Some studies have indicated that 50 to 80% of American adults have some form of dental anxiety, with as much as 20% being high anxiety. If that’s you, sedation dentistry could be the solution you’ve been looking for. This type of dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. This allows individuals with dental phobia or anxiety to receive the care they need comfortably and without stress.
Types of Sedation
There are different types of sedation used in dentistry. Here at Cape Dental Care, we use two types:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Each of our exam rooms is equipped with nitrous oxide. This is a gas that is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It induces a relaxed and euphoric feeling, helping patients remain calm during the procedure. It wears off quickly, allowing patients to drive themselves home afterward. This can be a great choice for those who aren’t having extensive or complicated procedures.
- IV Sedation: Intravenous (IV) sedation is administered through a vein, allowing for a deeper level of sedation. A patient will “feel” like they are asleep, though you will be able to respond to questions and commands throughout the procedure. This form of sedation is often used for more complex procedures or for patients with severe anxiety. Dr. Phillip Kraver has completed a postgraduate residency that extensively trained him in the use of IV sedation. He is licensed to administer IV sedation by the State of Florida.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
- Anxiety Relief: Using sedatives helps patients who experience dental anxiety or phobia by providing a relaxed and comfortable experience. It allows individuals to overcome their fears and receive the necessary dental care.
- Pain-Free Treatment: Sedation dentistry ensures that patients do not feel any pain during their dental procedures. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with a low pain threshold or sensitive teeth.
- Time Efficiency: By inducing a relaxed state, sedation dentistry allows our dentists to work more efficiently. Patients can undergo more complex or multiple procedures in a single appointment, minimizing the number of visits required.
- Improved Treatment Quality: When patients are relaxed, our dentists can perform procedures with greater precision and accuracy. This can lead to better treatment outcomes and long-lasting results.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is beneficial for a wide range of individuals, including:
- Dental Phobia or Anxiety: Patients with dental fears or anxiety can benefit greatly from sedation dentistry. It helps them overcome their fears and receive the dental care they need without distress.
- Low Pain Tolerance: Individuals who have a low pain threshold or heightened sensitivity may find sedation dentistry helpful in ensuring a pain-free experience.
- Complex Dental Procedures: Sedation dentistry is often used for more complex or lengthy dental procedures, such as wisdom teeth extraction or dental implant placement. It allows patients to remain comfortable throughout the process.
Safety Considerations
While sedation dentistry is generally safe, it’s important to discuss your medical history and any medications you are taking with your dentist. This information helps the dental team determine the most appropriate type and level of sedation for you.
If you are considering IV sedation, it is important that you have transportation arranged after the procedure because you will not be able to drive. We always recommend a trusted person, like a friend or family member, to be there to drive you home. Because you will likely need someone to help you into your home and help you get oriented, we never recommend that you use a taxi or ride-share service.
Sedation dentistry offers a solution for patients who experience dental anxiety or require complex procedures. By providing relaxation and pain relief, it enables individuals to receive necessary dental care comfortably. Discussing your concerns and medical history with a qualified dentist will ensure a safe and effective sedation experience. Don’t let fear or anxiety prevent you from achieving a healthy smile; explore sedation dentistry as an option for your dental needs. If you’d like to learn more about sedation dentistry or set up a visit with us, contact us. We’d love to help you get the care you need and the smile you want.