Do you have fear or anxiety about going to the dentist? Dental anxiety and dental phobia are estimated to affect over half of the population. As a result of this, sedation dentistry has become a popular option for people suffering from this type of fear. Sedation dentistry involves the use of relaxation medications to help you relax during your dental appointment.
Sedation dentistry isn’t for everyone, and there are different options to note. What should you know about your sedation dentistry options?
Finding a Dentist
Not all dentists offer sedation dentistry. Dentists have to be trained to offer sedation dentistry at their practice. They can do this through the American Dental Association as well as through other programs. It’s also important that you find a compassionate dentist that has experience in treating patients with dental anxiety and dental phobia. Many dentists offer care to these patients and understand the level of fear that results from having to face dental treatment. You can find an experienced sedation dentist practice in your area here.
The Levels of Sedation
There are also different levels of sedation that you should know about. Sedation dentistry provides everything from conscious sedation to deep sedation. Your options include:
Conscious sedation. During conscious sedation, you’ll still be able to respond physically and verbally to commands and stimulation. This is the lightest level of sedation.
Minimal sedation. You’ll still be able to respond, but your cognitive ability and coordination will be impaired. This is the next level of sedation for patients.
Moderate sedation. During moderate sedation, you can respond to verbal commands, and your breathing and cardiovascular function remain normal.
Deep sedation. In deep sedation, you can respond to repeated stimulation but are not easily wakened. This is the deepest level of sedation besides general anesthesia. You’ll need to talk with your dentist who is experienced in sedation dentistry to learn more about the types of sedation and which ones are right for you if you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right for You?
You should only consider sedation dentistry if you have a deep fear of going to the dentist or if even thinking about the dentist makes you feel anxious. Talk to your dentist to ensure your current medications won’t interact with the medications used during sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry is not for people who don’t react well to sedation drugs. Talk to your dentist if you have a history of trauma to your mouth, unbearable pain from dental problems, or are deeply embarrassed about your smile. You could be a candidate for sedation dentistry!
Sedation dentistry helps patients to feel less anxious about the necessary treatment for their smile. Often patients that put off going to the dentist need more dental work than people who go to the dentist regularly. You can help take care of your smile and relieve apprehension with sedation dentistry. Talk to your dentist if sedation dentistry is an option for you, or find a dentist in your area!
