The history of dentistry has not always been painless, which fuels fear and anxiety even in modern-day patients. As innovations continue in the dentistry field, there are more options than ever before that can help ease the anxiety of nervous patients and reduce pain and discomfort while in the dental chair. Sedation dentistry is one such innovation.
The New York dental professionals at Babylon Dental Care aim to help you understand what sedation dentistry entails and how it can help you overcome your dental fears, ultimately leading to a more comfortable experience.
Understanding Dental Anxiety and Its Impact on Oral Health
What happens when someone suffers from fear and anxiety? Typically, they avoid activities or issues that trigger these feelings. When individuals are afraid of the dentist, for whatever reason, they avoid making appointments. In some cases, the fear and anxiety a person experiences is so bad that they avoid making dental appointments even when they are in pain or know that they have significant oral health problems.
Dental anxiety can stem from numerous sources. Sometimes people have negative past experiences or trauma that follows them throughout their life, making them wary of trusting other dental professionals. The fear of pain, even during routine procedures, can also trigger some patients to avoid dental check-ups, even if that fear of pain is irrational in the context of their treatment. The sounds or smells of a dental office can even trigger adverse reactions in some patients.
Regardless of the cause, the result remains the same. Patients who are afraid to go to the dentist tend to suffer from poor oral health. Patients are likely to skip routine examinations, which can increase the likelihood of gum disease and tooth decay over time. Fear of dental treatment can also result in a snowball effect where minor issues turn into significant problems. A small cavity can develop into an abscess or even lead to tooth loss.
In addition to fear, patients may start to experience embarrassment or shame because they let anxiety prevent them from seeking needed treatment, causing additional stress.
What Is Sedation Dentistry and How Does It Help Anxious Patients
Sedation dentistry utilizes various medications to induce relaxation in patients who require assistance in coping with dental anxiety. During dental sedation, the patient remains awake and conscious, yet feels as if they are in an intense state of calm, sometimes referred to as “twilight sleep.”
There are different medications a dental office can use to induce sedation in patients. The first and one of the most common is nitrous oxide. Within a few minutes, most patients experience a sense of calm and peace, slipping into a state of relaxation.
Another option is IV sedation. This form of sedation dentistry is the deepest form of conscious sedation available in dental offices. Some patients under IV sedation may even fall asleep during the process.
The benefit of choosing sedation dentistry is clear. It offers dental anxiety management options that help patients overcome their fear and make dental visits more comfortable. Paired with breathing and relaxation techniques at the dentist, patients can feel calm in the dental chair and get the treatment they need to improve their oral health.
Sedation can also help make more complex dental treatments more efficient, allowing dental professionals to complete treatments in fewer sessions over longer appointments.
What to Expect During a Sedation Dentistry Appointment
Trust and communication with your dentist are key. First, your dentist should take the time to explain your sedation options and help you choose the one that works best for you. An experienced dental professional will also evaluate several factors to ensure you are a candidate for sedation dentistry. Be prepared to answer questions honestly about your medical history, health status, and anxiety level.
Sedation with nitrous oxide can be done in the office through a mask or canula. A patient breathes the gas and, within a short time, feels more relaxed and comfortable. During IV sedation, an IV is placed in the arm, and medication is administered directly into the bloodstream. Depending on the procedure, a dental anesthesiologist may provide the sedation and monitor vital signs while your dentist conducts your dental procedure.
For your safety, we recommend that you have a responsible adult accompany you to your visit and drive you home. Sedation can impact patients differently depending on the type and dose, and may affect your ability to operate a motor vehicle.
Schedule an Appointment with Babylon Dental Care Today
Dental phobia and avoidance can hurt your oral health. Schedule an appointment now and start the New Year with confidence and a radiant smile. Let the compassionate team at Babylon Dental Care help you explore your sedation dentistry options and make dental visits more comfortable.
Contact our New York office today at (631) 983-6665 to schedule an appointment.