If the very thought of visiting the dentist fills you with dread, you aren’t alone. It’s estimated that 9-15% of Americans avoid the dentist due to fear and apprehension.
For these people, their dental phobia prevents them from getting the treatment they need. They miss cleanings, screenings, and necessary treatments because of fear. This fear puts you at a higher risk of developing decay and gum disease – serious complications that can lead to tooth loss and the need for more invasive dental interventions, perpetuating your fears further.
Your teeth don’t have to suffer because of your nerves, at Hometown Family Dental Centers, you get top-notch quality care in a comfortable setting.
The compassion of the team and Dr. Scammon may be enough to allay your fears, but if not, sedation dentistry is an option. During this procedure, simple medication with nitrous oxide, oral pills, or IV is delivered to help you relax during your visit. Read on to learn why this may just be the best option for you to get the oral care you need for a healthy smile.
A little sedation can relax you for the visit, so you can simply experience less dread when you sit in the chair. In addition, if you have sensitive gums or teeth that cause discomfort and pain during a routine cleaning and exam, sedation is enough to get you through a visit comfortably unaware of the treatment. You wake up feeling rested, with barely any memory of the treatment.
If you’re nervous about your dental visit, one procedure may be all you can tolerate at a time. Or, a multi-procedure visit – such as one that includes X-rays, cleanings, and fillings – just takes a long time as you restore confidence after each step. With sedation dentistry, the staff at Hometown Family Dental Centers can cover more ground in a short period of time without needing to schedule extra visits. You save precious time, money, and angst with sedation dentistry.
Children often have uncertainty in the dental chair, but adults aren’t immune. You don’t just outgrow your fears. Before providing sedation, we review your medical history to make sure you’re a good candidate and what types would be best for you. All patients are carefully monitored during the sedation, so you’re kept safe.
Plus, if you or a family member has a sensory disorder, such as autism or another special need, sedation dentistry allows important care for the teeth to happen without triggering a reaction.
Most forms of sedation, such as nitrous oxide, have effects that wear off quickly. But, if you’re an adult who underwent IV or oral sedation, you may need a friend or family member to drive you home as the short-term effects may need a bit more recovery before you get on the road.
Don’t let anxiety, phobia, or fear keep you from getting the important oral care you need to preserve a healthy smile. Sedation dentistry is a simple, safe solution offered at Hometown Family Dental Centers. Call our offices, or book an appointment online to learn more today.
