While people often joke about being afraid of the dentist, for many individuals, dental anxiety is nothing to laugh about. The effects of dental phobias range from feeling mildly nervous to getting sweaty palms and a racing heartbeat upon entering the dental office. This anxiety can be so severe that it prevents people from seeing a dentist for years. Delaying dental procedures can result in costly problems for the future.
If you have dental anxiety or dental phobia, you have many helpful options. By talking with your dentist and looking into sedation dentistry, you can feel more comfortable and relaxed during your next dental visit.
Dental anxiety is more common than most people realize. Approximately 25% of American adults and children suffer from some form of dental fear or dental phobia.
If you feel apprehensive about going to the dentist, simply let your dentist know your feelings.
Dental anxiety and phobias have harmful consequences, though each occurs differently. Anxiety is milder and causes general uneasiness, while phobia describes an intense fear or dread. If you think you suffer from either, you should talk to your dentist. Dentists deal with fearful patients every day and they want to help you overcome your fear. Communicating with your dentist will only lead to more trust and comfort.
Treatments for Dental Anxiety and Fear
Dentists sometimes administer Nitrous Oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, to help sooth stressed-out patients. Many patients find that Nitrous Oxide keeps them relaxed and calm throughout the procedure. However, increased adrenaline in some patients may combat the Novocain and make this less effective.
If you've been putting off years of dental work because of anxiety or fear, you may need to find a specially trained and certified sedation dentist. Sedation dentistry involves taking a small pill before beginning a procedure — and it is a simple, safe process that keeps you awake throughout the operation, without having any memory of the dental work performed. You will also be able to have longer, more frequent and more complex dental procedures without the usual discomfort. Simply by taking a pill, you can have a comfortable, positive dental experience and catch up on years of dental work in one or two visits.
One-pill sedation dentistry is a safe and effective alternative for 90% of all dental patients. By finding a trained sedation dentist, you can enjoy the most soothing, comfortable dental experience of your life. Talking with your dentist about your fears should help to alleviate some of your anxiety.
Contact our Jenison dentists today in order to give your mouth the attention it deserves. For more information on dental anxiety and sedation dentistry, please contact our office here or call us at 616.457.9191.