Here at Absolute Dental Care, we understand that visiting the dentist can be stressful, and that many people experience anxiety or fear while receiving treatment. Our dentist and team are committed to relieving your fears and helping you feel at ease so you can receive the care you need without discomfort or anxiety.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
One of the options we offer for managing dental anxiety is sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry involves the use of a sedative medication to help you feel more relaxed, calm and comfortable. There are several types of sedation, ranging from mild to deeper forms that put you to sleep, but at our office we provide a type of sedation known as oral conscious sedation.
Dr. Todd Anderson will meet with you before your treatment to discuss your options. Before providing oral sedation, he will review your oral health, medical history and treatment options with you, as well as discuss your comfort level in the dental office. We will also provide you with instructions on how to prepare to receive sedation and what will be required after your treatment. For example, with oral sedation you need to have someone available to drive you to and from your appointment.
When Is Sedation Dentistry Recommended?
Sedation dentistry is typically recommended for patients who:
- Suffer from dental anxiety or fear
- Have difficulty getting numb
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Have special needs or cannot otherwise receive treatment
How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work?
Oral sedation is a form of conscious sedation, meaning that it helps you relax and feel comfortable without putting you to sleep. This type of sedation is administered in the form of a specially prescribed pill or other oral medication. We will provide you with instructions on when to take the pill before your appointment. You will need to have a family member or friend available to drive you to and from our office for your safety.
Please note that you may feel drowsy, and it is not uncommon for individuals who have received oral sedation to not remember the details of their treatment.
Other Options For Managing Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety and fear manifest in a wide variety of ways, from mild feelings of worry and stress to specific and debilitating fears about upcoming procedures. Aside from oral sedation, there are a few things our dentist and team may recommend to help alleviate your anxiety. These include:
- Speak with our dentist and team – if you are uncomfortable, anxious or afraid, please let us know. We can watch for signs of discomfort and work to accommodate your needs.
- Use calming techniques, such as controlled breathing or finding distractions in the room.
- Listen to music – this can give you something else to focus on as well as blocking out anxiety-producing noises in the room.
- Ask to take breaks. If you are feeling overwhelmed, signal us with your hand and we can stop for a few minutes to let you recover.
- Ask about alternative treatment options – the field of dentistry is continually advancing, and sometimes these advances allow us to provide the same results using different treatment methods.
Schedule A Consultation
Your health, smile and comfort are our highest priorities, and we never want fear or anxiety to prevent you from receiving the care you need to enjoy a healthy smile. To learn more about sedation dentistry in Nixa, Missouri, and schedule your consultation with Dr. Anderson, give us a call at 417-725-4746!