Avoiding Dental Anxiety: What Can I Do If I’m Experiencing Nervousness?
Proper oral care is vital to a beautiful smile and healthy teeth and gums. It is also very important to your overall health. As more and more research is compiled, evidence is showing a connection between poor dental health and common diseases such heart disease, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and more. The importance of seeing the dentist regularly is undeniable. Yet so many people put off going or avoid seeing the dentist altogether because of fear. If you are anxious about going to the dentist, even for a routine cleaning, know you are not alone. If your child is anxious about going to the dentist, know you have an option. At Evers Dental Center we work very hard to try to make your dental experience completely comfortable.
What is Conscious Sedation?
Evers Dental understands dental anxiety is a challenge for many patients, so we offer a safe solution – conscious sedation. Conscious sedation is a medically induced sedation. The most common delivery of conscious sedation is via nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is typically inhaled through a mask right in the dental chair. You are not unconscious, so you will remain awake for the procedure and be able to communicate with staff, but you will be relaxed and calm throughout. Unlike general anesthesia that takes hours to wear off, conscious sedation wears off soon after administration of the sedative is stopped. Shortly thereafter, you will regain full possession of your senses.
Conscious sedation may affect individuals differently. Some people report a feeling of general sluggishness. But the most common sensation people report is relaxation and tranquility. The sedative may take a few minutes to take effect but once it does. negative emotions such as anxiety, fear, stress, or panic typically fade away.
Understanding how stressful seeing the dentist can be for some children, conscious sedation is available to younger patients as well. Please discuss this with the dentist further. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) does recognize conscious sedation such as nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation as a safe and effective technique to reduce anxiety. It also promotes better communication between the patient and the healthcare provider.
Please consider conscious sedation if you feel anxious about seeing the dentist. Routine checkups and procedures are so important to oral health as well as general, overall health. Don’t let anxiety get in the way of living your healthiest life. Conscious sedation is an option available to patients who may otherwise put off necessary appointments simply because of fear or nervousness. Evers Dental takes pride in offering patients a welcoming space where compassion is paramount – a thoughtful and complete approach to dentistry.
You no longer have to wonder, “Is there a dentist who does sedation service near me?” Call Evers Dental Center because we provide sedation service in Sidney, Ohio and Shelby County so you can relax during your next dental appointment. Whether you experience dental anxiety for your regular cleanings or need root canal therapy, we offer dental sedation services.
If dental anxiety has caused you to worry or postpone a dental appointment in the past, please call or contact us Evers Dental Center and ask about how conscious sedation can help you, or your loved one.