If you experience fear anxiety at the thought of visiting the dentist, you are not alone. Estimates say as many as one-third of Americans have dental anxiety. Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help you to relax so and get the care your smile needs. There are a number of benefits that come with sedation – keep reading to find out what they are, so you can stop letting fear of the dental chair keep you from a healthy, beautiful smile!
#1: Anxiety Relief
The first and most obvious benefit of sedation dentistry is that it helps to calm your anxiety so you can relax throughout any procedure. There are a few options in sedation, ranging from nitrous oxide, which helps you feel happy and calm, to deeper relaxation achieved with oral conscious sedation. Your dentist will discuss your needs with you to determine which option will suit you best.
#2: Reduced Gagging
Gagging is a helpful reflex because it keeps you from swallowing things that might be poisonous or pose a choking risk. However, if you are undergoing a dental procedure, it is pretty much inevitable that the dentist’s tools will trigger your gag reflex, which can make it difficult to complete the procedure. Sedation dentistry helps by relaxing the reflex so your dentist can work with ease.
#3: Allows Your Dentist to Work Faster
Speaking of allowing your dentist to work faster, patients who are nervous about undergoing dental work want the procedure to be over as quickly as possible – and sedation dentistry helps make that possible. When you are completely relaxed and at-ease, your dentist can proceed efficiently, without having to take breaks or talk you through any anxiety you may be having. That way, you can be out of the chair and on your way sooner rather than later.
#4: Can Aid in Overcoming Fears
One of the best long-term benefits of dental sedation is that it can help patients overcome their fear of the dentist once and for all. When you finally you have that procedure that you have been putting off, you will see that there really isn’t anything to be afraid of – and that can help encourage you to stay on top of your routine visits, preventing any bigger issues from popping up in the future.
In short, sedation dentistry is a wonderful advancement that can help you relax in the dental chair at long last. Your dentist wants you to have a positive experience while under their care, so do not hesitate to inquire about your options in sedation before your next appointment.
Meet the Dentist
The team at RP Dental & Implants has more than 20 years of experience providing patients with top-notch dental care. They are committed to alleviating stress and anxiety through sedation dentistry and offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation for patients who need a little help relaxing through a procedure. To learn more about these options or to book an appointment, call the practice at visit our website or call us at 352-290-8040.