4 Great Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Here at Landmark Dental Group, we understand that going to the dentist isn’t the most enjoyable way to spend your time, but it’s something you shouldn’t avoid. If you get nervous about going to the dentist, however, it can be difficult to bring yourself to go. Luckily, sedation dentistry offers a stress-free way to visit the dentist.

No. 1 – You’re Completely Relaxed

Many people get anxious when they visit the dentist. Even if you’re just going in for a cleaning, you may feel the urge to postpone your appointment. Of course, that only increases the risk of developing a cavity, gum disease, or a more severe problem, including tooth loss. For people who have dental-related phobias, or anxiety in general, sedation dentistry makes going to the dentist a lot easier.

With sedation dentistry, one becomes completely relaxed. It’s easy to forget that you’re at the dentist’s office entirely! Not only does sedation put you at ease, but it makes the entire process easier for your dentist as well. A welcome side effect of the sedation is amnesia, so you won’t remember much of your appointment when it’s over.

No. 2 – You Feel No Pain

One reason people fear going to the dentist is pain. As dentists, we do our best to prevent pain, but some people are more sensitive than others. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, getting your teeth cleaned and rinsed may be painful enough to make you stay away. Even keeping your mouth wide open for a long time can be uncomfortable.

Sedation, however, creates a pain-free experience. Some types of sedation actually increase your pain threshold, so something that normally causes you pain will be like a walk in the park, and keeping your mouth open for a long time will be a breeze.

No. 3 – The Dentist Can Get More Done

Some dental procedures take a long time, and even though you’re just sitting there, they take their toll on you. For example, if you have several teeth that require crowns, and you decide not to undergo sedation dentistry, you may need to schedule several appointments. The strain and stress of a long appointment may just be too much for you.

However, if you do choose to undergo sedation, the dentist can often do more in one longer visit to minimize the number of times you would need to keep coming back. Since you’re sedated, you won’t even realize how long you’ve been at the dentist. You’ll feel like you just sat down when, in actuality, three hours have passed.

No. 4 – There Are Different Types of Sedation Available

There are many different types of sedation available, so you should be able to find the perfect one for you. If you only have a little anxiety about going to the dentist and the treatment won’t be too long, inhalational sedation (i.e. Nitrous oxide or the “laughing gas”) may be the right way to go.  If you have a moderate amount of anxiety, then taking an oral medication prior to your appointment  may help you to feel more relaxed.  On the other hand, if you have more severe anxiety or need to get a lot of treatment done in one visit, intravenous (IV) conscious sedation is the best option.

Sedation makes going to the dentist stress-free, which means you no longer have to put off much needed dental treatment. If you get nervous whenever you think about going to the dentist, contact our friendly office staff at Landmark Dental Group to discuss sedation options by calling (831) 464-1372.