Do you have an intense fear of the dentist? If so, you’re not alone. Up to 20% of Americans suffer from dental anxiety. Typically, a painful or traumatic dental experience is to blame for a debilitating fear of the dentist. For this reason, patients with nervousness associated with the dentist’s chair may avoid going to the dentist altogether. This is problematic, as neglecting regular dental cleanings and checkups can lead to more serious oral health issues.
If you’ve been avoiding the dentist, then it might be time to consider visiting a sedation dentist. Read on to discover the benefits of sedation dentistry.
The choice to receive dental sedation is entirely up to you. But we recommend sedation for patients who might:
If you think you or your child will benefit from dental sedation, then don’t hesitate to let our caring team know. Ultimately, it is our job to create a comfortable and positive environment for you to receive first-rate dental care.
At Rio Rancho Smiles, we offer two methods of dental sedation before treatment:
For patients with mild to moderate anxiety, oral sedatives are the perfect solution. Although oral sedation doesn’t eliminate pain, it does promote relaxation. Our dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Together, the sedative drug and local anesthesia dull the sensations of the procedure. At most, a patient might feel some slight tugging or pressure.
If you desire oral conscious sedation, let us know. We will give you a prescription for the sedative, which you will pick up at a pharmacy of your choosing. Once you have your prescription, carefully follow the dentist’s instructions on when the sedative should be taken. For most patients, the sedative will be taken 30 to 60 minutes prior to the procedure. and help the patient fall asleep.
After dental treatment, the dentist will gently shake the patient, so that they can awaken. The effects of the sedative wear off slowly. For this reason, it is imperative to have a friend or family member drive you home after your appointment.
Looking for gentle, quality sedation dentistry? At Rio Rancho Smiles, our dentists are committed to providing exceptional care in a calming and comfortable atmosphere. In addition to offering dental sedation, we also provide neck pillows, aromatherapy, warm towels, and lip balm. Let us give you the dental experience you deserve. Contact us online or call (505) 994-9693 to schedule an appointment today.
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