According to The Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, about 22 percent of patients experience extreme fear or anxiety about seeing the dentist. In fact, dental anxiety is so common that there’s a name for it: odontophobia. While it’s perfectly normal to feel some level of nervousness before a dental appointment, for those with odontophobia, the fear is more intense and can prevent them from seeking necessary dental care. If you have dental anxiety, sedation dentistry may be a good option for you. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s safe and effective, and it can make even the most anxious patient feel at ease. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top six reasons to consider sedation dentistry for your next procedure.
What is sedation dentistry?
If you have ever avoided going to the dentist because of fear or anxiety, you are not alone. Millions of Canadians experience some level of dental phobia, making it one of the most common fears in the country.
But what if there was a way to ease your fears and make your dental appointments more comfortable? That’s where sedation dentistry comes in.
Sedation dentistry is a type of dental care that uses medication to help patients relax during treatment. There are different levels of sedation, from minimal to deep, and your dentist will work with you to determine the best option for you based on your level of anxiety and the type of procedure being performed.
Some of the benefits of sedation dentistry include:
Relaxation: One of the main reasons people choose sedation dentistry is the simple fact that it helps them relax. If you have ever had a bad experience at the dentist or are just naturally anxious about dental procedures, sedation can help put your mind at ease.
Less pain: Many people associate going to the dentist with pain, but sedation can actually help reduce your perception of pain. This is especially helpful for procedures that may be more uncomfortable, such as getting a tooth pulled or having cavities filled.
shorter appointments: Because sedation allows you to relax and not feel as much pain, procedures that would normally take multiple visits can often be done in just one appointment.
The different types of sedation
There are different types of sedation that dental professionals can use, and the type that is best for a patient depends on their level of anxiety, medical history, and the procedure being performed. The three most common types of sedation used in dentistry are inhaled sedation, oral sedation, and IV sedation.
Inhaled Sedation: Inhaled sedation, also known as laughing gas, is a mild form of sedation that is administered through a mask placed over the nose. Patients who receive inhaled sedation will remain awake during their procedure but may feel light-headed and relaxed. This type of sedation is often used for children or adults with mild anxiety.
Oral Sedation: Oral sedation involves taking a pill before your appointment to help you relax. The pill can be taken at home or at the office, depending on the strength of the medication. Patients who receive oral sedation will likely remain awake during their procedure but may feel drowsy or groggy. This type of sedation is often used for adults with moderate anxiety.
IV Sedation: IV sedation is administered through a small IV in the arm and works quickly to help patients relax. Patients who receive IV sedation may not remember their procedure afterwards and will need someone to drive them home.
What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?
There are many benefits to sedation dentistry. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it can help to ease dental anxiety and fear. For many people, the thought of going to the dentist is enough to cause a great deal of stress and anxiety. Sedation dentistry can help to take the edge off these feelings and make the dental experience much more pleasant.
In addition, sedation dentistry can be very helpful for those who have difficulty getting numb or who have a low tolerance for pain. It can also be used for lengthy or complex dental procedures that would otherwise be too difficult or uncomfortable to complete without sedation.
Overall, sedation dentistry can make dental care much easier and more comfortable for both patients and dentists alike. If you have been avoiding the dentist due to fear or anxiety, sedation dentistry may be a good option for you.
What are the side effects of sedation dentistry?
There are a few potential side effects of sedation dentistry, but they are typically mild and temporary. The most common side effect is drowsiness, which can last for a few hours after your appointment. You will need someone to drive you home after your appointment if you are sedated. Other potential side effects include:
- Blood pressure
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Low
- Slow heart rate
Most people tolerate sedation dentistry well and do not experience any serious side effects. However, it is important to tell your dentist if you have any medical conditions that could potentially be affected by sedation.
Contact Brookmere Dental
If you're one of the many people who experience anxiety or fear when it comes to visiting the Dentistry in Port Coquitlam, you may be a candidate for Sedation Dentistry. This type of dentistry can provide you with a way to receive the dental care you need while feeling relaxed and comfortable.
Contact Brookmere Dental Group - If you're looking for a dental office that offers sedation dentistry in Coquitlam, look no further than Brookmere Dental in Port Coquitlam. Our team of experienced and caring dental professionals can help you receive the treatment you need while ensuring your comfort throughout the entire process.
