Taking the Fear Out of Going to the DentistMost people are somewhat nervous about going to the dentist, but for some people, the fear can be almost debilitating. Often, this can prevent people from getting the preventive care they need to stay healthy. What happens then is that is they end up going to the dentist only when an emergency situation pops up, such as a toothache. Treatment is then likely to be more complex, which only serves to perpetuate their fear.
The best way to avoid emergency dental treatment is regular dental checkups, and for the anxious, sedation dentistry can often be the answer.
People who have anxiety over visiting the dentist can often benefit from sedation, which can help dental patients relax before, during, and after their procedure.
Sedation dentistry is the use of medication to help people feel more relaxed. There are a number of different options, depending on the procedure and the patient’s anxiety level. Although it’s sometimes called “sleep dentistry,” it generally refers to a more relaxed state for patients rather than an actual sleeping state.
What Types of Sedation Are Available?Even patients who aren’t necessarily fearful of the dentist but may have a low tolerance for discomfort or a sensitive gag reflex find that sedation dentistry can be very useful. At The Dental Care Center, we offer several different sedation options.
This is the most common procedure and is generally done for fillings or other minor procedures as a matter of course. Your dentist will start by applying a topical gel to ensure a painless stick when the numbing agent, usually lidocaine, is injected directly into the gums in the area where the treatment will be. The entire treatment area will be numb so you will not feel any pain. You will be fully conscious during the procedure, and the anesthesia will wear off afterward.
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a colorless, odorless gas that patients breathe in through a mask placed over their nose. Often called “laughing gas,” the gas helps patients feel completely at ease during their procedure. You will be conscious but relatively anxiety free while you are breathing in the gas. Once the gas is switched off, you’ll return to your normal state right away, so this is a good option for those who may need to drive themselves or return to work after the procedure.
Oral sedation is a good option for patients who have somewhat higher than average anxiety about visiting the dentist. You will be prescribed a pill to be taken about an hour or so before your scheduled procedure. It will help you to be very relaxed and drowsy while you are undergoing treatment. You will likely maintain consciousness, but you probably won’t remember much about it. Because you will be groggy, you will need to arrange a ride to and from your appointment.
Don’t let routine dental care turn in to an emergency situation. Get the regular dental care you need to stay healthy by taking advantage of sedation dentistry. You can learn more by calling our office. We are happy to talk with you about how sedation dentistry can put your dental anxiety to rest and ensure you get the care you need!
Patients of all ages can feel anxious at the dental office. The anxiety ranges from mild discomfort to a more complex dental phobia. Fortunately, your compassionate dentist offers sedation dentistry in Van Nuys, CA, including nitrous oxide to help ease stress during your dental procedure.
In our dental office, we always numb the treatment site, but this may not be enough for those who are feeling anxious. The first level of sedation after local anesthesia is nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide is a safe and odorless gas delivered through a small mask worn over the nose. This gas produces feelings of relaxation and detachment. Our anxious patients often do not mind dental treatment when under the influence of nitrous oxide, and this gas is safe for patients of all ages.
When we remove the nasal mask, the effects of the gas wear off quickly. This means you can drive yourself home, go back to work, and enjoy your day without feeling tired and sedated.
If you would like to schedule a dental exam, or if you would like more information about sedation dentistry in Van Nuys, CA, reach out to one of our compassionate team members today.
At the Dental Care Center, we understand patient anxiety and dental phobia, and it is our goal to help every patient feel relaxed when under our care. For this reason, your dentist in Van Nuys, CA offers different options for sedation dentistry.
Sedation allows you to get the treatment you need without feeling anxious or unsure. Dental sedation is also safe for most patients, and your dentist typically asks about your medical history before moving forward.
Of course, we always use local anesthesia when performing invasive treatments like root canal therapy or certain cosmetic dentistry options, but for those who need a little more reassurance, your dentist considers nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and sometimes a combination of these options.
Nitrous Oxide is a safe and relaxing gas delivered through a nasal mask. It allows you to relax during your time in the dental chair. One of the benefits of nitrous oxide—aside from feeling relaxed—is that it wears off immediately after removing your mask. This means you can drive home from your procedure and enjoy your day.
Oral sedation is a pill you take approximately one hour before your dental procedure. With this option, you may not recall your dental treatment, but you will still be able to respond to the dentist. Oral sedation means a friend or family member must drive you to and from our 91405 dentist office.
In some cases, your dentist recommends combination therapy to help those who are especially anxious.
Our gentle team is here to make your dental experience as easy and comfortable as possible. Contact The Dental Care Center for more information on sedation dentistry and to schedule an appointment!
Dr. Peter Suh is a general dentist and owner of The Dental Care Center. A graduate of UC San Diego and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, he has been ...
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