Still Afraid of the dentist?

Unfortunately, going to the dentist may still be a fear and anxiety provoking experience for some people even with modern dental techniques — an interesting phenomenon given the fact that no one is born with fear. It is either a learned response, based on personal experience, or one that is literally imagined based upon hearing of another's treatment. However, regardless of how it develops, a person's perception is their reality. The good news is that today's dentists are here to both listen and to offer their patients the benefits of sedation dentistry that allows relaxation of mind and body. Thus, you can focus on feeling peaceful rather than anxious.

While research has shown that 75% of all people surveyed have at least a little fear about going to the dentist, 10-15% have a great deal of fear. In fact, some of these people experience so much fear that they will cancel dental appointments or never schedule in the first place. If the latter describes your feelings, we encourage you to ask about sedation or comfortable dentistry so that you can receive the dental care you need and deserve.

And this good news gets even better when you understand that oral sedation does not even involve injections (shots)! Dentists typically administer oral sedation in one of two methods: by giving you a pill to swallow whole or by giving you a tablet to place under your tongue (sub-lingually) where it dissolves. Once the prescription medication takes effect, you will remain awake and aware of your surroundings; however, the medication will help you transition from feeling nervous to a more comfortable state of being. Most of our patients describe their experience as “comfortable” or “relaxing.” Simply put, the anti-anxiety (anxiolytic) medication almost literally dissolves away your fears.

Dentists may also offer IV sedation, which is very safe and administered by a nurse anestheisologist. They are constantly monitoring your pulse, heart rate and oxygen levels.  You are completely unaware of the sounds, nosie of the drill, smells, pain or any other umcomfortable event. 

So, if fear is what is keeping you away from a healthy smile and body, ask your dentist about these options.