Does the thought of going to the dentist make you feel anxious and overwhelmed? Ever since you were a child, the sound of dental tools dragging across a metal tray and the smell of the sterile air has always made you incredibly uncomfortable. You recognize the importance of seeing your dentist to treat problems like cavities, but being a nervous mess keeps you from picking up the phone to schedule your appointment. Sedation dentistry in Corbin can help clear your mind and make your experience tolerable so you’re able to get the care that you need without all the added stress. Read on to learn about what sedation dentistry is and the different types available to you.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a gentle solution that helps you feel calm and at peace at your dentist’s office. You will remain conscious so you can respond and understand what’s happening during your treatment. It’ll make your dental procedure feel fast and easy as well. Depending on the severity of your anxiety, there are a couple different options your dentist can offer you.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, is a safe sedative that’s combined with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that covers your nose. Like most sedative techniques, this type doesn’t put you to sleep, and you will remain responsive and coherent. It only takes a couple of minutes to kick in, and once it does, you’ll begin to feel relaxed and comfortable. Soon after the mask is removed, you’ll start to feel the effects of it wear off.
IV Sedation
Typically, IV sedation is used for patients who may:
- Be scared of the dentist
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Struggle sitting through an appointment
- Need multiple procedures done in a single appointment
This type of sedation is administered directly into your bloodstream, which allows it to quickly take effect. Again, you’ll remain conscious, but time will go by fast, and you’ll have little memory of your appointment afterward. Because it is a more potent form of sedation than nitrous oxide, your dentist must have special training to administer it.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right for Me?
Sedation dentistry can get you back in your dentist’s office so you can take care of your oral health without all the added anxiety. Whether you’re going in for a simple filling or a root canal, there’s no need to be overwhelmed by nervousness if you don’t have to be. Your oral health will thank you once you go visit your dentist in Corbin!
About the Author
Dr. Katherine Whitaker is the only dentist within a 40-mile radius who is specially-trained to use IV sedation. She prides herself on understanding her patients so she can make them comfortable and their experience enjoyable. She strives to make her patients leave a little happier and healthier than when they came in. We understand that patients’ fear of the dentist come from a real place and want to do everything we can to put that fear to rest. To schedule an appointment or for any questions, visit Corbin Family Dental Care’s website or call 606-523-1415.