What is Oral Sedation Dentistry?
Does the thought of sitting in the dentist’s chair and getting a procedure done make you tense up with fear?
Regardless of whether you’re getting a routine cleaning or a more comprehensive dental treatment, it can be daunting to sit under the bright white lights with scary-looking equipment less than a foot away.
Dental anxiety is something many children and adults alike suffer from, with things such as needles and drills triggering their fight or flight response. In fact, many people choose to live with a toothache rather than face their fears and step foot in the dentist’s office.
Continuously delaying a trip to the dentist, especially when you’re experiencing symptoms of a dental issue, can be detrimental to your health. What may start as a simple procedure could turn into a much more painful and complicated treatment.
For people who absolutely cannot stand the thought of going to the dentist, sedation dentistry can be the saving grace they’re looking for.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Patients who suffer from dental anxiety or phobia can greatly benefit from oral sedation, which helps calm their nerves and make them more comfortable throughout the procedure.
Most often used before procedures such as root canals or dental crowns, the level of sedation can be adjusted to help anxious individuals feel more relaxed in the chair.
It’s important to note that sedation does not act as a pain medication, which usually comes in the form of numbing agents administered with a needle. A fear of needles is a big contributing factor to dental anxiety, which is why patients can choose to be sedated before receiving pain medications.
Oral sedation comes in the form of a pill you typically take an hour before your treatment. Depending on the dose given, the pill’s effect ranges from mild to moderate, but will not put you to sleep.
Coping with Dental Anxiety
The fear of visiting the dentist is a universal phenomenon, with nearly 16% of adults in Canada struggling with dental anxiety.
While sedation dentistry remains an option for those with severe anxiety, it’s vital to learn a few techniques to help calm your nerves before an appointment.
Getting overwhelmed while waiting for your name to be called may induce an anxiety attack, which is where knowing a few breathing exercises will come in handy. Mindful meditation involves focusing on your breathing and bringing your attention to the present without allowing your mind to drift off and think about the procedure.
Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist questions throughout the procedure, as hearing a soothing voice explain what’s happening will help ease any worries.
Distracting your thoughts by listening to music or an audiobook will help keep your mind off the freighting tools while also masking the sound of the drill.
Quality Dental Services in Richmond, ON
Do you feel your heart begin to race every time a visit to the dentist is mentioned?
Whatever the reason, there are several options available to help calm your nerves and prepare you for your appointment.
Our professional team at Dentistry At Richmond works hard to provide a calming and friendly environment to make you feel comfortable and relaxed during your visit. We strive to provide the best possible patient care by making sure both your dental and emotional health are well-taken care of.
Reach out to us to learn more about sedation dentistry and book your appointment today.
