Researchers estimate that somewhere between 9% to 15% of Americans refuse to undergo dental procedures out of fear. They would rather endure painful, infected, discolored, and damaged teeth than set foot in a dental office. Or, if and when they finally do make it in, it’s the worst part of their week. (Don’t worry, the dentists don’t take it personally.)
Sedation dentistry utilizes medication to create a more relaxing experience for those patients who might otherwise not receive dental care because of anxieties or phobias about the dentist. Sometimes referred to as “relaxation” or “anxiety-free” dentistry, sedation dentistry is now being offered by thousands of dentists, including Dr. Radosavljevic (Dr. Rados for short) of Clearwater Complete Dentistry in Clearwater FL.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right For You?
Sedation dentistry might be a solution for you if you avoid dental visits due to anxiety. Often times, that anxiety can be traced back to:
- Negative experiences at a dentist’s office in the past
- Fear of pain or of gagging/choking
- Extreme discomfort with the sounds and smells of dental office
- Dislike of feeling numb
- Fear of losing control
Sedation dentistry may also be appropriate for people who:
- Are unable to sit still in a dentist chair on their own
- Need a significant amount of dental work completed in a short period of time
- Have a low threshold for pain
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is an effective sedative that is administered through a mask that fits over your nose. The gas is mixed with oxygen and will help you enter a very relaxed state when inhaled. Contrary to common myth, nitrous oxide does not put you to sleep. You will still be able to carry on a conversation with the dentist, but it will help you feel more calm and comfortable. The effects wear off soon after the mask is removed and you begin breathing regular air again. You should even be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. Nitrous oxide is very safe and can even be used to soothe children with fear of the dentist.
Sedation Dentistry with Dr. Rados
Sedation dentistry is safe and effective. It works by calming the nerves that transmit fear and anxiety. Sedation dentistry is administered under the strict guidance of Dr. Radosavljevic and patients are closely monitored during treatment. Though patients are fully awake during the procedure, they often say they felt like they slept through treatment.
We believe that patients should be an active participant in their oral health. We take time to listen to the goals and concerns of each patient and explain their treatment options as well as the details of the procedure. Having a knowledge or understanding of the treatment helps many patients to feel more relaxed and calm. Our staff will make sure that you have complete pre- and post-treatment instructions so that you know exactly what to expect before, during and after your procedure.
We strive to make sure all of our patients feel comfortable at Clearwater Complete Dentistry in Clearwater FL. Our comfortable atmosphere combined with our courteous and professional staff, has helped hundreds of patients feel more at ease when seeing the dentist. But if you still have concerns, sedation dentistry might be right for you!
Contact our office online or call us at 727.360.4302 for more details and to schedule your appointment.