It is estimated that around 40 million people have a fear of dentists. If you are one of them, this fear can make it difficult for you to visit a dentist when you experience tooth pain or need a routine dental check-up. A person with dental phobia will find themselves making excuses to avoid making an appointment with the dentist, causing the problem to worsen with time.
Fortunately, there is a way you can deal with dental anxiety. Sedation dentistry can help you get through your dental check-up or any other procedure without you even being aware of it. If you have any questions about the technique, visit a good family dentistry Thornton today.
What is sedation dentistry?
When people hear the term “sedation,” they usually think it means being completely unconscious during a dental procedure. However, complete unconsciousness is only done during complex oral surgeries, such as removing a wisdom tooth. For minor procedures, the following options are used.
- You may inhale nitrous oxide using a mask placed over your nose. All you need to do is take a few deep breaths. Your dentist can adjust the medication as required.
- For a stronger effect, your dentist may suggest a pill that is to be taken at least 30 minutes before the procedure.
If you are considering sedation, make sure you bring a friend or family member along with you to the clinic. The sedation medication can make you feel drowsy after the procedure, and it won’t be safe for you to drive yourself back home.
What are the benefits of dental sedation?
Dental sedation has countless benefits, especially for people who fear going to the dentist due to the various myths associated with dentistry.
- Sedation can reduce your anxiety.
- The dentist does not use hard medication; usually, low to mild levels of medication is used to avoid prolonged effects.
- You will no longer feel nervous about visiting the dentist’s office anymore.
- Sedation does not take too long. After taking medicine, the effects start within half an hour.
- You won’t experience loss of muscle coordination or a euphoric high, and it is not addictive.
Do you require deep sedation?
If your anxiety levels are higher than usual, you may require deeper levels of sedation. Your dentist in Thornton may use an IV line to give you a precise amount of medication throughout the procedure. It will keep you sedated during the procedure; you may fall asleep or remain awake.
