Fear and anxiety relating to dental work should not stop you from getting the care you deserve. At Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we have a caring approach and sedation options available for our patients. Anxiety-reduction options are available for general work or treatments such as oral surgery. This will help improve your experience and help maintain your oral health.
What Causes Dental Anxiety
Dentophobia, the fear of the dentist, can be caused by many things. If you did not have regular visits as a child, you may be worried about receiving judgment from the dental staff as you take steps in your oral care as an adult. Patients who have had a negative experience with a treatment before may develop this condition as well. If you are afraid of needles, or dental tools, or feel overstimulated at the office, this can cause discomfort as well. No matter what the cause may be, we are dedicated to helping you feel at ease to get the care you deserve.
How A Calming Agent Can Help
We have several methods available depending on your needs. The type of sedative given to you will depend on your needs, the treatment you will be undertaking, and your health history. Most commonly, nitrous oxide can be used. This is the popular “laughing gas” that you may be familiar with. Nitrous oxide is usually prescribed for minimally invasive treatments and has short-lasting effects.
There are also the options to take a calming agent orally in a pill form, or through an IV solution. A sedative, such as Valium, can be prescribed and taken before your appointment. This will help keep you relaxed throughout the entirety of your treatment. The strongest option available is through an IV. This will be monitored by an anesthesiologist during more extensive dental work. The effects of this can be long-lasting. Remember to have a friend or family member drive you to and from your appointment.
When Can Sedation Be Used
As mentioned previously, you can use a calming agent in a variety of circumstances. For patients with severe dental anxiety, this may be used during a standard checkup and cleaning. Without a light form of anesthesia, it could be difficult for anxious patients to sit through a checkup. To keep up with your oral health and reduce the need for more invasive work later, this is a helpful option.
Of course, anesthesia can also be used during restorations and oral surgery as well. Instead of using a general form of anesthesia, dental sedation keeps you conscious. This allows for you to respond when needed without you feeling discomfort.
Talk To Your Dentist Today
Whether you have dental anxiety or need anesthesia for an invasive treatment, we have sedation options for you. Ask your dentist about these options today by calling Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, today at 903-455-5750.