If your palms get sweaty and your heart starts racing at the thought of going to the dentist, you are not alone. Up to 15% of Americans avoid going to the dentist due to dental anxiety or dental fear. Whether you have a mild anxiety or a paralyzing fear, if you are not getting the dental care you need, it is time to seek options. Fortunately, there are options out there. Many dentists now offer sedation dentistry to keep patients relaxed and at ease during dental procedures. While many practices offer laughing gas (or nitrous oxide), there are only a select number of dentists that offer IV sedation as well. Dr. Thompson of Dream Dentist is equipped and qualified to offer a complete range of sleep dentistry options to suit each individual’s needs and preferences.
Nitrous Oxide is among the most common forms of sedation dentistry. The nitrous oxide gas is administered by way of a nosepiece. It keeps patients in a very relaxed state, yet allows them to remain aware and able to move, breathe and communicate with their dentist. Nitrous Oxide is also best for patients who wish to recover quickly and drive themselves home. If you have a severe dental phobia or an extensive dental procedure scheduled, you may want to consider IV sedation.
If you suffer from dental phobia, it is very common for your child to suffer as well. In fact, a study conducted in Spain and published in the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry found that the greater the level of dentist fear or anxiety found in one family member, the higher the level in the rest of the family. This was especially true if the person with a dental phobia is the father. Although sedation dentistry is also safe for children, it is critical that you show your child the importance of going to the dentist as well as find a family dentist who can accommodate your child. Don’t be afraid to ask about how you can sleep through your dental care – even if it is just a routine cleaning!
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