June 7, 2021
Are you nervous about coming to our office? Do you put off your hygiene examinations or delay needed treatment out of fear? We know that some of our patients experience dental anxiety, and we never want them to delay their dental care because of fear. Our goal is to work with our patients to help develop a treatment plan that they feel comfortable with so they can get the dental care they need. We are able to do this with the use of two sedation methods designed to help you relax and be comfortable when in our office. Continue reading to see if these methods could benefit you or a loved one.
It is a fact that many people experience dental anxiety. While some cases are more severe than others, we understand when our patients have nervous feelings about coming to our office for a hygiene examination and cleaning. The biggest problem arises when they delay treatment due to fear. Avoiding dental care can actually result in larger problems that need more extensive and lengthier treatments.
We never want our patients to avoid the care they need and deserve. The most important thing to remember about dental anxiety is to be honest with yourself and our staff. Sharing your feelings can make a big difference, and we can find ways to make you comfortable. Some patients develop fear due to the unknown. In this case, we can be very clear about the treatment and explain the steps thoroughly.
For patients with more severe fear, we provide dental sedation, which creates relaxation using medical intervention. We offer two forms of sedation in our office:
Nitrous Oxide – also known as laughing gas, is inhaled throughout the duration of the treatment, leaving the patient relaxed and calm. The effects of this method wear off immediately following the treatment, allowing patients to drive to and from treatment.
Oral Sedation – this method is taken in pill form, and although the patient remains awake during treatment, they are in a completely relaxed state. They are able to communicate during treatment, but due to extreme relaxation, they are not permitted to drive to and from treatment.
Both of these forms of sedation dentistry are safe and effective and will help put you at ease during your visit. There’s no need to avoid important treatments anymore. Please let us know if you would like to consider one of these sedation techniques at your next visit to our office located in Montgomery, AL, and we’ll be happy to discuss your options with you.