Many people are afraid of visiting the dentist. This fear which is called dental phobia makes some people not seek the dental treatment that they need. You may have heard stories of pain or discomfort during the treatment or even during the visit which makes you nervous. But there is no need to worry! Sedation dentistry in SW Calgary is available to assist you. In this article, we will discuss how sedation dentistry can improve your experience of dental visits.
Understanding Dental Phobia
Dental phobia is a real phobia. It impacts people of all ages. Some people have a fear of the dental tools, the noise of the equipment or even being in a dental chair. This fear can lead to not going to the dentist at all which can result in many dental issues in the future. Skipping a visit to the dentist can result in toothaches, cavities, gum disease and more. Understanding this fear is the first step toward overcoming it.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation Dentistry involve uses of medication to help the patient relax during their dental visit. It is a relatively common practice that makes visits to the dentist a less intimidating experience. There are various levels of sedation that can be used in dentistry, and the choice of sedation depends on the patient’s anxiety level and the type of dental procedure they need.
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): This is a common form of sedation. The dentist places a mask over your nose, allowing you to breathe in a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen. This helps you feel relaxed and happy during your visit.
- Oral Sedation: In this method, the dentist gives you a pill to take before your appointment. This pill will make you feel calm and comfortable. You will still be awake but may feel drowsy.
- IV Sedation: This method is used for more complex procedures. The dentist administers sedation through an IV, allowing for quick and stronger effects. You will relax quickly, making it easier for the dentist to complete the treatment.
How Sedation Dentistry Helps Patients with Dental Phobia?
Sedation dentistry has many benefits, especially for those with dental phobia. Here are some reasons why patients choose this option:
- Reduces Anxiety: Sedation dentistry helps reduce feelings of fear and anxiety. Patients often report feeling much calmer when they know they will be sedated during their visit.
- Pain Control: With sedation, patients often feel little to no pain during their procedures. This can make even the most daunting treatments much easier to handle.
- Increased Comfort: When a patient is relaxed, the dentist can work more efficiently. This means that the treatment can be completed quickly, which is helpful for both the patient and the dentist.
- Memory Loss: Many patients do not remember the entire experience. This can be beneficial for those who fear going to the dentist because they feel less stress knowing they won’t recall all the sights and sounds of the procedure.
- Easier for Complex Procedures: Sedation is particularly helpful for longer or more complicated dental work. This means patients can have multiple treatments at once without the stress of multiple visits.
How to Prepare for Sedation Dentistry
If you think sedation dentistry is right for you, here’s how to prepare:
- Consultation: Talk to your dentist about your fears. They can explain the options and suggest the best type of sedation for you.
- Follow Instructions: If you are using oral sedation or IV sedation, you will need someone to drive you home afterward. Follow all the instructions given by your dentist.
- Plan for Recovery: After treatment, take some time to rest. You may feel sleepy, so it is best to have a quiet day planned.
Sedation dentistry is a helpful way to manage dental phobia. By reducing anxiety and discomfort, it makes visiting the dentist a more positive experience. If you or someone you know struggles with dental fear, talk to a dentist about sedation options. Remember, your dental health is essential, and with sedation dentistry, you can take the first step towards a healthier smile without fear.
Say Goodbye to Dental Fear with Sedation!
At Heritage Park Dental, we understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful for some patients. That’s why we offer sedation options to help you feel calm and comfortable during your treatment. Whether it’s a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, our team of dentist in SW Calgary ensures a relaxed experience.
Don’t let fear hold you back—schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward stress-free dental care!
