Sedation Dentistry: A Game-Changer for Patients With Severe Dental Anxiety

If butterflies fill your stomach as dental appointments near or you put dental care off entirely because of nerves, you’re far from alone. Up to an estimated 20% of Americans avoid the dentist because of anxiety. While those feelings are nothing to be ashamed of, finding ways to get the care you need is essential for ensuring your long-term dental health and overall wellness. 

Sedation dentistry can provide an effective means of doing so. Scott Young, DDS loves providing this option for his patients. To learn more, call our office or request an appointment on our website.

Sedation dentistry for calmness

Sedation dentistry provides a safe way of inviting peace during dental care, whether you’re having a cavity filled or something more intense, such as oral surgery. Our team offers a range of sedation options, including inhaled, oral, and intravenous medications, to help you relax. Your provider will recommend your best choice, which may include:

• Minimal or light sedation, which will keep you relaxed while awake
• Moderate sedation, which brings deeper conscious relaxation and leaves you with little memory of the procedure
• Deep sedation, which brings about a twilight state, meaning you’ll be at the edge of full consciousness
• General anesthesia, which will allow you to sleep 

Good candidates for sedation dentistry

Most anyone who feels the need for greater relaxation during dental care can benefit from sedation dentistry. You may be an ideal candidate if you’re:

• Having multiple procedures performed at once
• In good overall health
• Prone to anxiety or restlessness
• Someone who puts off dental care because of fear

Sedation dentistry can be especially helpful if you have a low pain tolerance, extremely sensitive teeth, or a sensitive gag reflex. Children and people with special needs that interfere with verbal communication or cognition may also benefit from a dental sedation option, such as nitrous oxide.

How safe is sedation dentistry?

When sedation dentistry is administered by a highly qualified and experienced dental team like ours, it’s safe for people of all ages. For best results, be sure to follow all instructions provided, which may include avoiding eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before or after your treatment. If you have a chronic health condition, talk to your provider about it in advance. Asking any questions you may have leading up to your procedure can also help ease your mind, too, by minimizing the unknowns about safety or other concerns.

To find out if sedation dentistry is ideal for you, call Scott Young, DDS, or request an appointment on our website. Our team would love to help you get the dental care you need while making it as comfortable as possible.