Easing Dental Anxiety: Coping Methods that Can Help

Many people experience anxiety before visiting the dentist, but for those with a true fear of the dentist, that fear can cause them to avoid seeing a dentist altogether. There are a number of factors that can contribute to a person’s dental anxiety, including past traumatic experiences, anxiety from pain, or a general fear of the unknown. If you suffer from dental anxiety and have avoided visiting the dentist in Ahwatukee because of your fears, you should know that you do have options available that can help soothe your nerves during a dental appointment. One option is sedation dentistry, which will allow you to relax during your procedure without fear and anxiety.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide

Some patients prefer to avoid medication when getting dental treatments. For these patients, we may suggest nitrous oxide sedation dentistry. This involves inhaling the gas for relaxation. We monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your safety while under the effects of the gas. This type of sedation wears off quickly after the appointment ends, so you should be able to resume your normal activities right away. 

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation is a form of moderate sedative that allows your dentist in Ahwatukee to administer medication in the form of a pill so that you can relax while you are in the chair yet remain awake and responsive. This form of sedation is recommended for procedures that last longer than an hour or two because the patient must remain in the office during that time. You will not be able to drive home after you receive oral conscious sedation, so you will need to make arrangements for a ride home.

There are several types of medications that can be given orally to help patients relax while they are at the dentist’s office. Some of the most common are benzodiazepines and nitrous oxide. Your doctor will work with you to decide which kind of sedation is right for you based on your medical history and current health.

IV Sedation

This sedation dentistry technique involves administering sedative medication through an IV line. The medication creates a state of drowsiness that helps the patient relax during dental treatment, and most patients don’t remember much about the procedure afterward. It’s a great way to treat patients who are anxious about their treatment or have difficulty sitting still for long periods. It’s also a good choice for patients who need many treatments in one appointment.

To learn more about dental services or to schedule an appointment with our dentist, you can call us from your nearest location or make a visit to our office closer to your convenient location. We will be happy to assist you further.