We understand that you don’t avoid the dentist because you don’t feel like going. Getting your regular treatments can be extremely difficult if you have a dental fear, especially if it’s because of a negative experience you had at a previous practice. However, dental fear is not as uncommon as you think. It’s been estimated that between 9 and 15 percent of Americans avoided seeing the dentist out of fear or due to anxiety. That equates to between 30 and 40 million people.
That’s why your sedation dentist in Sapulpa is offering multiple solutions to curb your dental fear. Trust us, it’s much better to consider these over never visiting.
The Cost of Missing Dental Exams and Cleanings
Even with the most diligent at-home oral care, you still need to see your dentist for professional cleanings. Not only are their tools and cleaning solutions more effective than over-the-counter products, they can reach areas of the mouth that would be too difficult for a normal brush to reach. These areas can be covered with tartar, a hardened version of plaque that requires professional removal.
Additionally, not seeing your dentist puts you at higher risk of common dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Since oral health has been proven to have a strong link to overall health, you also end up at risk for other disease outside of the mouth. This includes heart disease, stroke, and other diseases.
Thankfully, there is medication available that caters specifically to those with dental fear.
What is Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation is a method of sedation that’s designed to make you feel very relaxed by the time your dental treatment starts. It’s a medication that’s taken orally about two hours prior to your appointment. You’ll need to have a guardian drive you to and from the appointment to avoid any risk of an accident.
You’ll still be awake during your treatment, but this is only so the dentist can make adjustments to your comfortability should you need any. The medication only lasts a few hours, so by the time treatment is finished, you’ll be feeling back to normal once you arrive home. While this treatment is ideal for mild to moderate levels of dental anxiety, there are stronger alternatives as well.
What is IV Sedation?
IV sedation is similar to oral sedation, except the strength and administration method is different. Instead of an oral medication, the sedative is delivered through your veins. As it enters your bloodstream, you’ll quickly very relaxed and ready for treatment.
One of the benefits of this method is the on-the-fly adjustments your sedation dentist in Sapulpa can make. In this method, you’re also awake and able to tell the dentist how you’re feeling. Your dental team will pay very close attention to your vital signs to ensure your health and safety is always secure.
No amount of fear is worth forgoing dental visits entirely. We have the tools to help you, so contact your dentist in Sapulpa today to schedule your appointment!
About the Author
Dr. Parnam Mohanna has been working in the dental business since he was a teenager. Now, he’s well-trained in a wide variety of dental treatments and techniques, including oral and IV sedation. To learn more about his practice and dental care expertise, contact him at (918) 216-1000 or visit his website.