If you are uncomfortable with visiting the dentist, you aren’t alone. Millions of Americans suffer from dental anxiety (36% of the population), which can end up having a serious impact on their oral health. If you are planning to schedule a dental procedure and would like to learn more about sedation dentistry, this blog post is for you.
Here, we will highlight the top questions to ask your dentist about sedation dentistry. Given that many people fear the uncertainty and unknown that surrounds dental visits, being able to get answers from your dentist will help to prepare you before you sit in the dentist’s chair.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Sedation?
The primary benefits of dental sedation include:
- Reduce anxiety during procedures
- Lower discomfort and pain
- Reduction in a gag reflex
- Speed up the dental procedure
- Reduce feelings of claustrophobia
12% of Americans report extreme dental fear and dental sedation helps to put them at complete ease, making dental visits relaxing and easy.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Good candidates for sedation dentistry include people with:
- Dental fear
- Tooth sensitivity
- Overly sensitive gag reflex
- Difficulty controlling movements
- Feelings of claustrophobia
- Special needs
Dental sedation can be safely administered to people of all ages, including children.
What Types of Sedation Dentistry Are There?
There are several different types of anesthetic that can be administered. We will take a patient’s blood pressure, monitor oxygen, and look at current medication to tailor the right sedation plan.
There are also varying levels of sedation, which include minimal, moderate, and deep sedation. We will ensure that the right sedation is administered so that the patient is completely at ease.
What Can You Expect With Sedation Dentistry?
During the initial sedation visit, we will tailor a personalized sedation plan that is right for the patient. At this point, we will explain everything to you and you can ask any additional questions that you may have. The following day, the patient will return to the clinic with a driver (who will take them home afterward).
Once we administer the sedation, we will commence with the dental procedure and work as normal. Usually, patients fall asleep when under sedation and remember very little of the experience as a whole.
Using Sedation for Your Next Dental Procedure
If the thought of a dental visit makes you feel uncomfortable for any reason, sedation dentistry is highly recommended. If you have been putting off undergoing a dental procedure or routine checkups with your dentist due to anxiety or fear, sedation can make your time at the dentist completely comfortable. At Iron City Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing excellent dental care and creating long-lasting relationships with our patients. We are happy to answer any and all questions that you may have about dental sedation.