Many people find visiting the dentist intimidating or frightening. This is a common feeling that many experience. In fact, some choose not to go for their appointments since they are afraid of pain and feel uncomfortable in the dentist’s chair. Sedation dentistry can help patients relax during dental procedures.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses safe medicine to help you feel comfortable while the dentist works on your teeth. Depending on what you need, you might feel a little sleepy or very relaxed.
Most of the time, you stay awake and can still talk to the dentist. However, you will not be as bothered by the sounds or the feelings of the dental tools.
For people who have sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or a deep fear of dental work, sedation dentistry is a great option.
Finding the Right Way to Relax
Every person has different needs, so there are a few different ways to help you feel comfortable.
Nitrous Oxide
Many people know this as laughing gas. You breathe it in through a small mask that sits over your nose. It makes you feel light and happy.
The best part is that the effect goes away almost as soon as you stop breathing the gas. You can usually drive yourself home and go back to your normal routine right after the visit.
Oral Sedation
If you feel very nervous, the dentist might give you a pill to take before the work begins. This medicine makes you feel very drowsy and calm.
You will still be awake, but you might not remember much about the appointment once it is finished.
IV Sedation
For long treatments or very high levels of fear, medicine is given through a vein. This provides a very deep sense of relaxation.
The dental team watches you closely the entire time to make sure you stay safe and comfortable.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your comfort starts with a simple conversation. Before any work starts, you and your dentist will talk about your health and your fears. This helps the team pick the best type of medicine for you.
During the treatment, the medicine keeps you from feeling overwhelmed. The dental team checks your heart rate and breathing to ensure everything goes smoothly.
After the procedure is complete, you may need some time to fully recover from the sedation, but you will walk out with an excellent smile and nothing but positive experience during the appointment.
Why People Choose to Use Sedation
Choosing to relax during your visit makes life much easier for several reasons:
- It stops you from feeling scared during the visit.
- It makes a long appointment feel like it only lasted a few minutes.
- It allows the dentist to do more work at one time, so you do not have to come back as often.
- It is perfect for people who have very sensitive gums or teeth.
Take the Stress Out of Dental Care
You should not have to choose between your peace of mind and your dental health. Sedation dentistry makes it possible to keep your teeth healthy without any worry.
If you have been avoiding the dentist because of fear, our team at Rath Family Dental wants to help you feel safe. Give us a call at (713) 551-9400. We can talk about your choices and help you get back to a healthy smile with a calm and easy approach.