Is Dental Sedation Right for Me?

I’ve been avoiding the dentist for a while because of dental anxiety. I can tell my oral health is suffering as a result. I’ve heard dental sedation is helpful for people in my situation but don’t know much about what it means. How do you know if it is right for you?

Casey

Dear Casey,

Woman in dental chair asleep from dental sedation

It fantastic that you’re taking steps to work around your dental anxiety. You’ll not only see a boost to your oral health, but your overall health as well. Most patients don’t realize how much their dental care affects how they feel in general.

Many people suffer from dental anxiety. Fortunately, sedation dentistry can be the perfect solution for people in your situation. However, there are some things to consider first.

What level of Dental Sedation is Best for You?

Most dentists offer two levels of sedation: nitrous oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation. Which you’d choose depends on your level of anxiety. The lowest level is nitrous oxide. It’s for patients with mild anxiety. The patients who just need something to help relax them a bit before they have their topical anesthetic. This puts them at ease and makes the numbing medication more effective.

For many with severe anxiety, nitrous isn’t enough. Instead, they require the stronger sedation option. If that is you, i’d suggest oral conscious sedation. With this you’ll take a pill provided by your dentist before your dental appointment. It completely relaxes you. In fact, you’ll be much too relaxed to drive and your dentist will require you have someone drive you to and from your appointment. Additionally, you’ll want them to stay until you are again lucid.

There are two huge benefits to oral conscious sedation. First, you will be completely relaxed. Most patients end up sleeping through their entire appointment. The second advantage is the amount of work the dentist is able to get done in each appointment. If you’ve avoided dental care for a while, this will be huge for you. It allows you to catch up on your work quicker, helping you to avoid dental emergencies.

This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Steven Collins.