5 Signs That Sedation Dentistry Might Be Right for You

Not many people are thrilled at the idea of going to the dentist, but most can tolerate the cleanings, treatments, and procedures they need to keep their pearly whites healthy. However, dental anxiety or physical circumstances can make it tempting to skip your appointments altogether. If this sounds familiar, sedation dentistry may be able to help you feel comfortable while you get the dental care you need. Read on as your Midland sedation dentist shares five signs that these calming services might be right for you.

1.) Visiting the Dentist Makes You Extremely Anxious

It’s estimated that about 9-15% of Americans avoid getting the dental care they need out of nervousness. If this sounds familiar, you should know that this can lead to much larger, more expensive oral health issues later on. Nitrous oxide can help you feel more relaxed and at-ease while in the examination chair, and it has no long-lasting side effects so you can quickly get back to the rest of your day. For those who tend to cancel or skip appointments out of anxiety, oral conscious sedation can help you start relaxing before you even arrive to the office.

2.) Dental Work Is Typically Uncomfortable for You

Caring for your oral health shouldn’t be uncomfortable. Sedation dentistry can help ease your senses and make dental appointments a breeze, especially if you have:

• Sensitive teeth or gag reflex.
• Trouble numbing with local anesthetic alone.
• Neck, back, or jaw problems that make sitting in the examination chair for long periods uncomfortable.

3.) You’re Bothered by the Smells & Sounds of the Dentist’s Office

Some people aren’t anxious about going to the dentist, but find the smells and sounds of the office bothersome or uncomfortable. Whether it’s the smell of gloves, the sound of the dental drill, or any other unavoidable sensation of dental care, these sensitivities can make your appointments much more unpleasant than they should be. Sedation dentistry can help you feel at-ease when confronted with these aspects of your visit, so you can get the oral healthcare you need without the extra stress.

4.) You Want to Be Sedated, But Not Fully Knocked-Out

You don’t need to be unconscious to feel more comfortable at the dentist’s office. Just as there are varying degrees of dental anxiety and health conditions, there are different levels of sedation dentistry:

• Nitrous oxide is the lightest form of sedation. Within moments of inhaling this colorless, odorless gas, you’ll be feeling light and at-ease. You’ll be able to respond to questions from your dental team and can go back to your day right after your appointment.
• Oral conscious sedation achieves a deeper level of relaxation thanks to an anti-anxiety medication. While you may feel drowsy after your appointment and aren’t likely to remember anything from it, you’ll stay conscious throughout your treatment.

5.) You Plan on Having a Long or Complex Procedure

Sedation dentistry is a great choice for those undergoing a longer, more extensive treatment. Since you’ll be spending more time in the examination chair than usual, sedation can help you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout your appointment. It may even help your dentist complete your work faster!

What’s holding you back from taking care of your smile? Your Midland sedation dentist would be happy to help make your appointments as pleasant as possible with sedation dentistry!

About the Author

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Laura Philipps, DMD is committed to helping the smiles of Midland achieve and maintain optimal oral health. As an active member in numerous organizations including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Oral Systemic Health, she has completed countless hours of continuing education in a variety of advanced topics. She is proud to offer both nitrous oxide sedation and oral conscious sedation to help all patients get the comfortable care they deserve. To see if you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry, she can be contacted via her website or at (432) 570-4433.