Do you experience dental anxiety or fear that makes you put off scheduling your checkups and cleanings or procedures that you know you need? Consider asking your dentist in Irving about what sedation options they offer. From nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation to IV sedation, they can recommend the one that will best fit your unique needs. Read on to learn more about your sedation choices and how to determine which is best for you.
The Self-Fulfilling Loop of Dental Anxiety & Oral Health
Dental discomfort, anxiety, and fear strike the hearts of countless patients across the country, keeping them from scheduling important checkups and treatments. As a result, some patients may find themselves in a self-fulfilling loop, only going to the dental office when their discomfort becomes too much to handle or they feel anxious about the status of their oral health. This in itself can further entrench a feeling of dread or anxiety at the thought of going to the dental office.
The good news is that many dentists are conscientious of these feelings in their patients, which is why they offer services like dental sedation to help ease their nerves.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sedation?
While sedation is excellent for patients who have a phobia of visiting the dental office, there are a number of other factors that could make you a great candidate for it too, including:
- You have a sensitive gag reflex that makes cleanings uncomfortable.
- You have had a bad past experience that makes you hesitant to undergo a treatment you need.
- You have a disability that makes it uncomfortable or difficult for you to sit still during treatments, checkups, or cleanings.
- You require multiple procedures at once and don’t think you can sit through them in one visit.
- You experience dental sensitivity or have difficulty getting numb.
If any of these traits sound familiar to you, the best next step is to schedule a consultation with your sedation dentist to learn more.
What Type of Sedation is Best for You?
Sedation dentists typically offer three different methods depending on your biggest concerns.
- The lightest sedation method is nitrous oxide sedation, which is fast-acting and also fast-dissipating. This means that you’ll be able to return to work or carry on with the rest of your day after your visit.
- Oral conscious sedation is a slightly stronger sedation method. It usually involves you taking a single pill before your appointment (usually Halcion or Valium), that helps soothe your nerves. The effects can linger, so you may need to cancel the rest of your plans for that day.
- Lastly is IV sedation, which is the strongest in-office sedation method your dentist will offer. This administers the sedative directly into the bloodstream for fast-acting effects that can linger for up to 12 hours. You will need to have a trusted friend or family member drop you off and pick you up from your appointment.
Although anxiety and fear may feel like a major barrier to overcome to get you to see your dentist, it’s worth it to try. Choosing an understanding and compassionate dentist who will take your concerns seriously can act as the first building block of a new and improved relationship with your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has over a decade of experience practicing dentistry and has completed advanced training in sedation dentistry. With his Level 2 certification, he’s able to offer IV sedation in-office, as well as nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation methods. To learn more about how he can help soothe your anxieties and provide you with an overall more positive dental experience, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114.