DEALING WITH DENTAL ANXIETY AND FEARS
Heights, public speaking, clowns, small spaces, and going to the dentist. These are five of the top fears Americans have. Although we are not able to help you with four of these, our team at DentalWorks – Durham can try to help you conquer your fear of going to the dentist. Maybe an unpleasant experience with a procedure or dentist has kept you from returning for oral health exams and cleanings. No matter what has been keeping you from going to a dentist in Durham, NC to treat or prevent issues, sedation dentistry might be the solution. This blog reviews the most common sedation dentistry options, candidate guidelines, plus what to expect before, during, and after sedation.
METHODS OF SEDATION DENTISTRY
The majority of dental practices in Durham, NC use three kinds for sedation — oral-conscious medication, nitrous oxide gas, and IV (intravenous) sedation. A single method or a combination might be used to fit the procedure being performed and your needs. Local anesthesia can also be added to numb the gums if your procedure is invasive.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SEDATION?
Prior to administering sedation, your dentist will schedule a consultation to decide what method of sedation can be safely used and is best for your needs. You should talk to your dental team regarding your medical history, if you have or had a serious medical condition, if you have any allergies, and medications you take (this includes prescriptions, plus non-prescription vitamins, supplements, and herbs). It is best to be honest to avoid interactions and side effects. In this meeting, your dentist will give you their sedation recommendations and, if you’re approved, what you need to do prior to and following your sedation. Typically, pregnant women are strongly encouraged to wait until after their delivery to get sedation and procedures.
GETTING READY FOR SEDATION
To minimize common side effects, like nausea, it is recommended that you eat a small meal before you take your prescribed oral-conscious medication or arrive for your appointment to get nitrous-oxide gas. If you are getting IV sedation, you might need to fast for several hours prior to your appointment. Your dental team will discuss your pre-sedation requirements; however, if you’re receiving IV or oral-conscious sedation, you will likely need to have a friend or family member bring you to the dentist’s office because you won’t be permitted to drive afterward.
RECOVERING FROM SEDATION
It’s possible you will recover quickly or you might take a little longer based on the method of sedation you received. Your dental team should review what will happen, such as common side effects and how long you should wait to eat. How fast you recover will also vary based on what treatment you received (a routine cleaning probably won’t lengthen your recovery; however, oral surgery will add some time). You need to follow your dentist’s suggestions and look for symptoms of a reaction or other complications.
GET MORE INFORMATION ON DENTAL SEDATION
With all your newfound knowledge of sedation dentistry, you’re ready contact a dental practice in Durham, NC to schedule an appointment for a consultation if you want to find out more about your options. At DentalWorks – Durham, our team screens patients to ensure they are good candidates to get sedation in their consultative appointment. Your team will explain what is going to happen every step of the way to help you feel comfortable. We want to make your appointments a good experience to make it easier for you to get bi-annual cleanings and dental exams without anxiety or fear. Reach out to our office in Durham, NC to schedule an appointment and find out more about dental sedation.
