Do you have a fear of the dentist’s office? Even with all the advances in tools, methods, and technology, the majority of the population shares that fear and anxiety with you.
Dental anxiety can be triggered by many things, including fear of needles and drills and previous bad dental experiences. It can cause major distress and avoidance issues when it comes time for dental appointments. In fact, 10% of Americans have a dental phobia so strong they avoid getting the dental care they need. Fortunately, you don’t need to suffer from this fear or anxiety because there is a solution that will allow you to get the dental treatment you need and remain relaxed and worry-free.
Relaxation Dentistry to the Rescue
Relaxation dentistry is the process of making the dental experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. One tool of relaxation dentistry is the use of mild to moderate sedation. The intent is not to put you to sleep like anesthesia but to relax and soothe. There are several options, depending on the extent of your fear and the dental procedure to be done.
Oral Sedation — This is the most common technique used in the U.S. to ease dental fear. You’ll be given a pill to take prior to your appointment that will make you less aware of the pain, sounds, and smells. When you arrive for your appointment, you’ll be totally at ease and relaxed. (You will need a driver to and from the appointment.)
Nitrous Oxide – This is a safe gas mixed with oxygen that is inhaled through a mask. You remain awake but relaxed. After the procedure is complete, the mask is switched to oxygen only to aid in recovery. Typically, the effects wear off quickly, and you can drive yourself to and from the appointment.
With sedation dentistry, you may find yourself in a relaxed state where time passes quickly. Sedation may be the answer for you if you have problems sitting for any length of time or for complex procedures that could take a long time or would otherwise require multiple visits.
You may not always look forward to a visit with us, but you need not fear it. A key to coping with dental anxiety is communication. If you are in Boca Raton, Florida, or the surrounding areas, contact our office for a consultation or appointment today to find out if sedation dentistry can help you.
