If you are one of the millions of people who are afraid to go to the dentist, you obviously aren’t alone. Lots of people have a real anxiety about dental visits, which prevents them from going to the dentist. This is a problem, because your overall health may depend on your dental visits, because if you have problems with your teeth or gums, they may lead to problems with your overall health–and no one wants that.
One way that you may be able to have dental visits anxiety free is through the use of dental sedation. Which type of sedation is right for you? Here are some suggestions.
Types of Dental Sedation
One of the types of sedation your dentist may suggest if you have anxiety about dental visits, but your anxiety is not massive is oral sedation. Many dentists will prescribe a mild sedative, such as Halcion or Valium. The pill is usually taken about an hour before the dental visit. Oral sedation does relax you, and may make you sleepy, but does not make you unconscious. Sometimes a more moderate dose is given, and you may actually fall asleep during the procedure, but you can be awakened easily.
Your dentist may also talk to you about breathing in a sedative gas, such as nitrous oxide. The gas wears off fairly quickly after the procedure is completed, and unlike the other types of anesthesia, you are able to drive afterwards. Nitrous oxide is one of the most commonly used types of sedation, and many patients find it very calming and relaxing.
If you are having a dental procedure rather than a cleaning, your dentist may want to suggest you try IV sedation. The drugs, because they are inserted through an IV work quickly. The dentist is also able to adjust the amount of sedation during the procedure.
Not sure which kind of sedation is best for you? Why not make an appointment to come in and talk with us about which type of sedation will work best to make your dental visits as anxiety free as possible.