If you struggle with dental anxiety, you’re not alone.
Millions of people delay or avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear.
Some people assume the dental care they need will be painful. Some are nervous because they don’t know what to expect. Others are embarrassed about the current state of their smile. Still more have had bad experiences in the past. Others are worried about how much their dental care will cost. Some are worried about more than one of those things.
Regardless of which dental phobias you’re dealing with, avoiding the dentist now can lead to untreated cavities, gum disease, infections, and tooth loss, which can cause you pain and require you to need more extensive and expensive treatments later.
The good news is that there are numerous techniques and sedation options that can help you overcome your dental anxiety and receive the care you need.
TIPS FOR OVERCOMING YOUR DENTAL ANXIETY
The first step in overcoming your dental anxiety is to find a dentist with great reviews from current patients. Those reviews should mention a relaxing office atmosphere, high-tech treatment options, and a friendly and caring staff.
After you’ve selected a dentist and made an appointment, plan to arrive early so you can ease yourself into the office visit, fill out any necessary paperwork, and take a few extra minutes to relax. Some dental patients find it helpful to stretch, meditate, or do some deep controlled breathing before their appointment. You might also want to ask a friend or family member to come with you to help you feel more comfortable.
During your office visit, let your dentist and dental team know you feel nervous. Be sure to ask questions and share any concerns or discomfort you may have so your dentist can provide a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Once your dentist has examined your smile and created a treatment plan, he will likely suggest sedation options that can help you feel at ease while you receive care.
SEDATION DENTISTRY OPTIONS
Sedation dentistry provides you with significant benefits during dental procedures, including reduced anxiety, increased comfort, and minimal memory of the treatment. It can also help you remain still while receiving care, which helps your dentist perform complex procedures more efficiently.
Dr. Armstrong offers the following types of sedation dentistry to provide a relaxed environment for your treatment:
Nitrous Oxide — Commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a harmless mixture of nitrous and oxygen which is administered to you through a mask. You will remain fully awake while experiencing a state of relaxation and euphoria, reduced pain sensitivity, and anxiety. You might even giggle a little bit. Once the flow of the gas is stopped, the mask is removed and the effects will wear off in minutes, allowing you to drive home safely.
Oral Sedation — Oral sedation is typically delivered in the form of a prescribed pill that you take an hour before you come to the dental office for treatment. This form of sedation helps you feel calm and comfortable during your appointment, while also helping you remain conscious and able to respond to the dentist’s questions and instructions. You will likely feel relaxed and groggy for several hours, so you will need someone to accompany you to and from the appointment.
IV Sedation — Ideal for lengthy or complex dental procedures, this powerful, fast-acting form of sedation is administered into your bloodstream via an intravenous line. You will experience deep relaxation and anxiety relief, typically within minutes, and your dentist can adjust the sedation level as needed, ensuring your comfort throughout the treatment.
Unlike general anesthesia, which renders you completely unconscious and unresponsive, IV sedation allows you to respond to commands — though you will likely have little memory of the procedure once it’s completed. IV sedation also requires less extensive monitoring and a shorter recovery than general anesthesia. You will need a ride to and from your appointment, however, as well as assistance getting into a car and into bed to rest once you arrive home.
Has fear caused you to put off the dental care you need? Dr. Armstrong can create a plan to treat your anxiety and your smile. Click here to make an appointment today.
