Dental anxiety is quite common, so many dentists offer anxiety free dentistry services, which focus on the comfort and overall well-being of the patient during their dental visits. One common part of anxiety free dentistry is sedation, and learning more about it can help you determine if it is right for you.
The use of sedation in anxiety free dentistry
Sedation is commonly used in dentistry, particularly for more invasive dental procedures. There are different levels of sedation, and some more mild forms can help people with dental anxiety feel better during their dental visits. This review discusses the role sedation plays in anxiety free dentistry.
What is anxiety free dentistry?
Anxiety free dentistry focuses on the mental well-being and comfort of the patient during the visit. This aspect of dental care was overlooked by many dentists in the past. However, as awareness of the widespread nature of dental anxiety increases, more dentists are starting to focus on offering a more relaxed and comfortable environment. This may include an increase in the use of dental sedation, a friendlier staff, a fun and colorful office environment, and more.
When is sedation used in anxiety free dentistry?
Sedation is typically used in dentistry for more invasive dental procedures, such as root canal therapy, tooth extraction, and oral surgery procedures. However, a dentist that focuses on helping patients with an increased level of dental anxiety may be more willing to offer milder forms of dental sedation for patients that request it. This could be for a simple cleaning procedure and other treatments that do not typically require the use of dental sedation.
What are the different types of sedation?
Of course, a dentist would not recommend a high level of sedation for a simple dental procedure. However, there are some low-risk and milder forms that may be preferable for many patients. In general, the four main types of dental sedation are nitrous oxide (also called laughing gas), IV sedation (which is administered intravenously), oral sedation (in pill form), and general anesthesia. Patients are able to drive themselves home with laughing gas, although oral sedation and IV sedation may require arranging for a ride home. General anesthesia is typically only used for more invasive oral surgery procedures.
Is sedation safe?
Notable complications from dental sedation are rare in anxiety free dentistry. The effects of most sedatives wear off within a few hours after the dental visit. If you have any concerns about the risks of the recommended type of dental sedation, discuss them with the dentist before use. They can explain the safety of the treatment and the pros and cons of each option.
Is your dental anxiety preventing you from getting dental care?
Anxiety free dentistry helps many patients with dental anxiety get the care that they need in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Here at our dental office, we offer anxiety free dentistry services, and we can use sedation when necessary and preferred by the patient to help them remain comfortable. So why wait? Call us today to schedule a visit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.kingdentistry.com or call King Dentistry at (209) 585-1474 for an appointment in our Turlock office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Anxiety Free Dentistry in Turlock, CA.
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