The medication I take for an autoimmune condition is ruining my teeth. I think sedation dentistry might be the only way I can go through what I need to get my smile back but I’m even nervous about that. I used to be an actor for local TV commercials and my smile was beautiful. Now I hide it. Even though my doctor prescribed the medication knowing that it would affect my teeth, she periodically insinuates that my teeth are unsightly. Although I love her medical care, I’m not sure I can take many more of her insults. I do need to do something to my teeth. Even the thought of getting sedation dentistry is making me nervous. What are my alternatives for getting my anxiety under control? Kerry
Kerry – We’re sorry that your medication is affecting your teeth and that your doctor isn’t compassionate about it. There are some prescription medications that can affect the appearance and the strength of your teeth. A sedation dentist understands your anxiety and will work with you to ensure your comfort. In addition to the sedation itself, there are some things the dentist will do to help you relax.
What a Sedation Dentist Will Do to Help You Relax
- Seek to understand your reasons for anxiety – Patients have dental anxiety for different reasons. A sedation dentist is interested in the source of your anxiety. If it’s associated with certain events in the treatment room, he or she will avoid those actions if possible, or be sensitive to your concerns about them.
- Inform you of his or her training – Rigorous training and testing are required to become a sedation dentist. Your dentist will let you know the training and experience he or she received and continues to receive.
- Let you know your options – There are different levels of sedation. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is the lowest level. Conscious oral sedation or IV sedation might be offered. Your dentist will determine the right level to match your anxiety and dental procedure.
- Explain what you can expect – It helps to understand what you should expect when you receive sedation dentistry. The dentist will explain what will happen before, during, and after your appointment. You will be closely monitored throughout the procedure. Remember that you will still be conscious during the procedure.
- Create a relaxing environment – Sedation dentists understand that their office environment can either help you relax or make you more anxious. They make the effort to create a relaxing environment. Music, headphones, TVs, blankets, and other amenities will be offered to help you relax.
- Answer your questions – Before your dental procedure, your sedation dentist will address your concerns.
We recommend that you schedule a consultation with one or two sedation dentists. This is an opportunity to experience the office environment, and meet some of the staff and the dentist. It can help you determine which dentist will best meet your needs.
This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Collins.