Sedation and Dental Anxiety

Are you looking for ways to ease your dental anxiety? If so, consider different sedation options. According to the American Dental Association, the type of procedure, your overall health, your history of allergies, and your anxiety level are all considered when determining which approach is best for your particular case. Ready to learn more about how dental sedation options can help those who experience dental anxiety?

About dental sedation

While many dental patients who experience anxiety will experience positive results by performing relaxation or distraction techniques, not every patient will benefit from these techniques. Instead, many patients need some type of dental sedation to undergo any necessary dental treatment.

In-office options for dental sedation

The list below includes some of the more common in-office options patients who experience dental anxiety can choose from to help them be more comfortable and relaxed during their dental treatment.

Conscious oral sedation

Conscious oral sedation is a commonly chosen option for addressing anxiety in patients experiencing mild to moderate levels of dental anxiety. Patients will receive a prescription pill to be taken the evening before their dental appointment and another pill in the morning before their appointment. These pills allow patients to feel more comfortable because they make them feel very relaxed, minimizing their ability to feel any anxious feelings. In addition, patients who choose this option cannot drive to or from their dental appointment.

IV sedation

IV sedation is an option that is often used for dental patients who experience moderate to extreme dental anxiety. Patients who choose this option will feel very sleepy but will not go to sleep. They will also be somewhat aware of what is going on, but because they are under this type of sedation, they will have no memory of the actual procedure. An anesthesiologist will administer this sedation option to the patient, who will also stay and monitor the patient the entire time they are undergoing their dental procedure.

General sedation

General sedation, also known as general anesthesia, is the number one sedation option that dentist use for their patients who experience extreme dental anxiety. When general sedation is used, the patient is completely unconscious during their dental treatment, which means they will have no recollection of the procedure. In addition, patients undergoing general sedation will need to recover for several hours after the procedure to prevent the sedation from wearing off. Therefore, they must arrange a ride home and rest for the remaining day.

Is sedation the right choice for you?

If you are experiencing dental anxiety, you are not alone. Dental anxiety is something that many people experience, just on different levels. For those who experience moderate to severe anxiety, sedation options are available to choose from, allowing them the relaxation they need to feel comfortable while undergoing any necessary dental treatments. Ready to take the first step in the process? Call our office today for an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://sonorandesertdentistry.com or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

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