Does the thought of having a dental cleaning or tooth extraction make you anxious? Would you rather bear a toothache than sitting on a dental chair? If your answer is yes, you’re likely to avoid your dental checkups and treatments.
Delaying regular dental checkups and therapies can lead to serious dental conditions. Therefore, it advisable to cope with dental anxiety.
Dentophobia may be due to bad experiences and pain caused in the past. Sometimes the reasons for dental anxiety are not very easy to explain.
Sedation dentistry is an efficient technique to alleviate xenophobia or dental anxiety.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using sedation during dental procedures. Your family dentist will use various medications or sedatives to relieve you from anxiety and pain during any dental process.
There are various sedation levels utilised depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s anxiety.
Minimal Sedation– Patient is relaxed but fully awake.
Moderate Sedation – Patient remains conscious but a bit groggy or sleepy (slurred speech)
Deep Sedation– The patient is at the edge of consciousness and may not remember the procedure details.
General anaesthesia – Patient is entirely unconscious. Generally requires the intervention of a specialist.
Visit a renowned and professional Family dentist in Warriewood for your dental requirements. During your dental visit, explain your anxiety so that your dentist can recommend the best course of therapy and sedation.
Common Sedatives Used In Sedation Dentistry
Here are some common medications used for sedation during dental procedures-
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
It has an anesthetic effect and puts patients in a relaxed state. The sedative effect wears off quickly. You can even drive back home after your dental procedure.
Oral medication/ Benzodiazepines
Most common oral medication used for the treatment of phobic states and general anxiety disorders. It is a relatively safe sedative and relaxes you during a dental procedure. It doesn’t make you unconscious, but in some instances, it may make you sleepy until the sedation wears off.
Your dentist will recommend you take the pill an hour before your procedure.
IV (Intravenous) Sedatives
Your dentist might need to control the level of your consciousness throughout the procedure. With IV procedures, your dentist can vary the sedation level from deep sedation to general anesthesia.
Don’t Delay Your Dental Care.
The greatest benefit of sedation dentistry is not just temporary anxiety relief – but regular dental care and enhanced oral health that goes with it.
You will be more comfortable with the idea of a dental visit and encouraged to never miss another appointment.
At United Dental Clinic, experienced professionals listen to your dental issues and associated phobias to make your dental experience safe and comfortable. Don’t delay your dental care. Speak to an expert today.