One of the most important changes in dental care for many people is the growth of sedation dentistry. People who have a phobia about going to the dentist can now have their teeth repaired and tended to without tension or stress. With a few simple change to the dentist’s routine, you can have your dental work done in complete comfort.
Elements of Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry uses mild sedatives to ease you into a state of complete relaxation. Even if you have to have extensive or complex work done, you’ll feel as if you’ve only been in the dental chair for minutes. Time seems to move more quickly while you’re sedated. [pullquote]People who have a phobia about going to the dentist can now have their teeth repaired and tended to without tension or stress. [/pullquote]
Typically, your dentist will offer either a sedative you take orally or nitrous oxide, which is inhaled while your work is being done. The oral sedative takes a short time to take effect, and also takes some time to wear off after your work has been completed. If you choose oral sedation, be sure you have someone to take you to and from your appointment, as you will not be safe to drive home on your own. Nitrous oxide, on the other hand, wears off fairly quickly, but if you have any doubts about your ability to drive, be sure to arrange for help.
Advantages of Sedation Dentistry
If you have had bad experiences in the past with having dental work done, you might struggle with anxiety and discomfort when you consider going to the dentist. With sedation, you can experience a relaxed, restful, almost dream-like state while the dentist works on your teeth. If you have put off dental work and need to have several issues dealt with, sedation can help by allowing you to have several procedures done in a single appointment. With sedation, you can ensure your long-term dental health by catching up and keeping up with previously neglected dental work.
To find out more about sedation dentistry and how it can help you, please contact the office of Dr. Nicholas Kemp for an appointment.