How Sedation Dentistry Can Help You Like Going To The Dentist Again
If you start to feel panic and anxiety even when you hear the word, "dentist" then you likely suffer from dental anxiety. Dental anxiety is a common condition that a lot of patients face when they have to go into the dentist for a dental procedure like a cleaning, having a cavity filled, or a variety of other treatments. Because dentists saw how many of their patients were suffering from dental anxiety, they decided that they would create a solution called sedation dentistry so that patients like you can enjoy going to the dentist.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Imagine going to your dentist feeling completely calm or being completely sedated for the entire procedure. Sedation dentistry does just that. How severe your anxiety is and the type of dental procedure that you are having done will determine what kind of sedation dentistry is better for you.
What Kinds Of Sedation Dentistry Are Out There?
There are several types of sedation dentistry that your dentist may offer and recommend to you. Based on your anxiety level, those options include the following:
Anxiety Medication: One of the mildest forms of sedation dentistry is the use of anxiety medication like Xanax before a patient comes into the office. This type of medication is prescribed by the dentist beforehand and then the patient will have to find a ride to and from the dentist because it can impair their judgment. This type of medication can make you really calm, tired, and relaxed.
Laughing Gas: Another mild form of sedation dentistry is the use of laughing gas which is typically what they use for children who undergo dental procedures. The great thing about laughing gas is that it only makes you feel calm and loopy while you're using it but as soon as you stop using it, you will be completely coherent and okay to drive yourself home.
IV Sedation: A more moderate form of sedation dentistry is called IV sedation in which an IV drip will be administered to you both before and during the procedure to help keep you calm. While you will still be conscious with an IV, you typically won't remember any part of the surgery.
General Anesthesia: If you have severe anxiety and are needing a more intense dental procedure, then an anesthetist may need to come to your dentist and sedate you with general anesthesia. During this type of treatment, you will be completely unconscious so that you won't remember a thing.
The best way to determine which sedation option is best for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist beforehand. To learn more about sedation dentistry and your options, reach out to your dentist.