If the mere thought of going to a dental appointment makes you feel anxious and uncomfortable, you should look into sedation dentistry near you. At Walden Dental Wellness, we offer sedation dentistry in Legacy to our patients to help them feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental procedures. Here are some things you should know about sedation dentistry.
1. Sedatives and Anesthetics Are Different
There is a common misunderstanding that anesthetics and sedatives are the same things, but this is far from the truth. Anesthetics are much stronger drugs than sedatives and are used to completely numb the senses during a procedure. Sedatives are simply used to induce a state of calm and relaxation in patients.
If you are given general anesthesia prior to a dental procedure, then you will be entirely unconscious. However, if you are given a sedative, you will be awake for the procedure and have the ability to communicate with your dentist while feeling relaxed and comfortable.
2. Sedation Dentistry is Safe
When administered by a qualified dental professional, there are no major risks associated with sedation dentistry. Many sedatives have been used for decades, with lots of research and experience to verify their safety and effectiveness. A dentist near you can discuss which form of sedation dentistry is best for your needs. Depending on your anxiety levels, your dentist may prescribe you a pill to take prior to your appointment or administer the sedative intravenously.
3. Sedative Doses Are Specific
If you are dealing with dental anxiety, it is never a good idea to self-medicate prior to a dental procedure. This can lead to complications and more stress for both you and your dentist. Instead, make sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations and take what is prescribed.
4. People Without Dental Anxiety Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry
While a popular reason for receiving sedation dentistry is dental anxiety, people who aren’t afraid of the dentist can also reap its benefits. You may want to consider sedation dentistry in Walden if you:
- Require a large amount of dental work
- Have experienced dental trauma in the past
- Have sensitive teeth and gums
- Experience neck, jaw, or back pain
- Have trouble controlling your gag reflex
5. Dentists Also Love Sedation Dentistry
Not only does sedation dentistry make it easier for patients to cope with dental treatments, but it also makes it easier for dentists to do their job properly. With patients in a more relaxed state, dentists are less worried about their patients feeling stressed out and can focus on the work at hand. This is especially important because patients with dental anxiety tend to neglect their oral health needs for long periods, and by default, tend to have a more severe build-up of plaque and tartar. Sedation dentistry allows your dentist to potentially repair years of damage in a single appointment.
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a scary experience. Sedation dentistry is designed to help you and is safe for the majority of patients. If you struggle with dental anxiety and stress, speak to a dentist in Walden about your options for sedation dentistry.
At Walden Dental Wellness, we prioritize the well-being of our patients. Our team wants you to maintain optimal oral health for as long as possible while also protecting your mental well-being. We are happy to offer sedation dentistry to those who find going to the dentist difficult. Please contact us to book a consultation today.