Sedation Dentistry in Richardson Calms and Removes Your Dental Fears

While there are many factors that influence whether a person goes to the dentist regularly or not, one of the most common factors is fear, according to a 2015 report from the Health Policy Institute at the American Dental Association. In the report, it found that 22 percent of respondents cited fear as a reason for not visiting a dentist within the last 12 months.

Thankfully, sedation dentistry in Richardson makes it easier for people with fear, anxiety or issues to get the necessary dental care they need. Here’s how!

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a treatment method that uses medication to help patients stay calm and relaxed prior and during their dental procedure. While these medications are designed to put you in a deep calming state, they usually don’t put you entirely to sleep. This allows you to tell the dentist about your comfort level and if you need further accommodations as the treatment is performed.

While sedation is mainly utilized for those with fear or anxiety, its uses are not limited to these issues alone. If you suffer from any of the following to the point that it affects your ability to receive treatment, sedation dentistry might be the solution you’ve been looking for. These include:

• Sensitive gag reflex
• Low pain threshold
• An inability to sit still in a dental chair
• Sensitive teeth

What are My Options?

Some dentists offer one form of sedation, while others offer as many as three. This number of options provided largely varies on the expertise of the dentist. With that said, the most common forms of sedation include:

• Nitrous Oxide – Also known as “laughing gas”, this treatment is ideal for those with mild levels of anxiety. It’s fast-acting properties make it ideal for those who want to continue their day without interruption.
• Oral Conscious – By taking a sedative several hours prior to treatment, you’ll feel fully relaxed before you even arrive at the office. Keep in mind its strength requires a friend or family member to drive you to and from the practice.
• Intravenous (IV) – This combines the on-the-fly adjustment feature of nitrous oxide sedation and the strength of oral conscious sedation. Medication is administered through an IV bag and also requires individuals to rest for 24 hours before resuming daily activities.

How Can I Benefit?

Sedation dentistry is not only ideal for people with fear, anxiety or another issue. It’s also a great solution for those with mental disabilities that prevent them from receiving necessary cleanings or checkups. Furthermore, those who have multiple or extensive treatments to complete can receive their care more efficiently. Instead of scheduling your treatments across multiple appointments, you improve the chances of getting everything you need completed in just one appointment.

Don’t let dental phobia or anxiety lead to poor oral health. Take advantage of sedation dentistry by scheduling an appointment today!

About the Practice

McDougal and Richards Dentistry offers nitrous oxide, oral conscious and intravenous sedation for those with mental or physical impairments preventing them from receiving dental care. The dentists and team members are trained and fully-qualified to provide you safe sedation therapy, regardless of how severe your issue may be. To learn more or receive treatment, you can contact the dentists via their website.