sedation dentistry Owensboro KY

I Get Nervous At the Dentist. Can Sedation Dentistry Help?

Some people just don’t feel comfortable visiting the dentist in Beaver Dam and Owensboro, KY. For some people, visiting the dentist is a source of stress and anxiety.

People who fear the dentist may avoid getting their teeth cleaned because of these fears, which can make visits to the dentist a more stressful experience. Putting off visits to the dentist can lead to a buildup of plaque and other dental problems, which in turn can mean a greater risk of problems like periodontal disease.

All in all, it’s very important to go to the dentist every six months, so if you’re afraid of visiting the dentist, it’s important to find something to help you feel more comfortable. That’s where sedation dentistry comes in.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a technique of using sedation to make dental cleanings and dental visits more comfortable. Dentists use sedation dentistry for patients who have dental anxiety and during appointments that are supposed to be very long or uncomfortable.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right for Me?

If you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry in Beaver Dam and Owensboro, KY, your dentist may approach you about this during your dental visit. However, if you’re afraid to go to the dentist, you can contact your local dentist to find out if they can help you with sedation dentistry.

There are many sedation options available, including nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is a low-level sedation that can help you relax during dental visits. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so you can drive yourself to and from your dental appointment.

At Dr. Travis Wilson Family Dentistry, we’re happy to offer sedation dentistry for patients who need it. Call today to learn more.

I Have a Fear of Visiting the Dentist – What Can Help?

Fear of visiting the dentist is a common problem, but there are many things you can do to alleviate your fear. Working with a dentist in Owensboro and Beaver Dam, KY, who understands these problems and can help you is important. The more support you get from your dentist, the easier your next appointment with the dentist will be. Here’s what you need to know.

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

Be mindful of your breathing on the way to the dentist and as you’re sitting down in the dental chair. Noticing your breath and heart rate can calm you and bring you back to the center.

You may also use other relaxation techniques like visualization techniques. Focusing your attention on a relaxing image of water, the beach, or a favorite place to visit can help distract you from the activity in the dental office.

Bring Something to Distract You

Do you enjoy listening to podcasts or music? Bring your favorite radio programming to listen to while your dentist does their work. Listening to something engaging can take your mind off of the dental office while your dentist does their work.

Talk to Your Dentist

Your dentist may have techniques and ideas that can help you feel more relaxed while you’re in the dentist office. Communicate with your dentist about your anxiety so you can devise strategies together.

See a Dentist that Offers Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry can help you feel relaxed during your next dental procedure. There are many types of sedation dentistry, so your dentist can help you choose the right level of sedation for your level of anxiety. Not all dentists offer sedation dentistry to patients with anxiety, so if this is important to you, see Dr. Travis Wilson Family Dentistry. We offer sedation dentistry in Owensboro and Beaver Dam, KY. Call today.

 

“Sedation Dentistry Is Hard on Your Brain” and Other Myths

Some studies indicate that as many as one out of three patients deals with some level of anxiety about going to the dentist. Thankfully, sedation dentistry in Owensboro can make these treatments more comfortable for patients who may not otherwise get the care they need. While sedation dentistry has become a normal part of modern-day dental care, this level of treatment is not immune to some pretty unfair myths.

Myth: Sedation dentistry is hard on your brain.

Sedation dentistry does not have long-term effects on your brain, your memory, or any of your neural processes. This myth stems from the fact that IV sedation is associated with losing memory of what took place, but there is no merit to the idea that the treatment is detrimental to your brain function.

Myth: You can still feel everything while sedated.

When you are sedated via IV, you won’t feel anything at all. However, if you are sedated with oral medications, you do retain your sensitivity. Therefore, if you opt for oral sedation with prescription medication before treatment, the dentist still follows the same protocols. They will use a local anesthetic to the area where work is being done so you don’t feel anything.

Myth: You stay groggy for days after sedation.

After being sedated, whether with IV sedation or oral medication, you may feel groggy for a few hours after treatment. However, most people are back to their fully alert state within a few hours. We do recommend that you arrange for someone to drive you back home from your appointment for this reason.

Find Out About Sedation Dentistry in Owensboro

If you’ve put off dental treatments you know you need because you are anxious about the procedure, sedation dentistry in Owensboro can be a saving grace. Reach out to us at Travis Wilson Family Dentistry to schedule your appointment for treatment with sedation today.