Many patients, of all ages, feel anxious or fearful about visiting the dentist. Does this include you or a loved one? You might be worried of what oral health issues may be discovered, or that you will feel discomfort or pain. Perhaps you don’t like someone incredibly close to your face and mouth for an extended amount of time. We get it–a dental appointment is not exactly like taking a trip to the movies or eating a popsicle in the park. However, receiving regular professional dental checkups and cleanings are crucial to keep your mouth healthy. Read on to learn more about dental anxiety and how IV dental sedation may be a good solution to help you get the dental treatment you need!
Talk to Us About Your Dental Anxiety!
Here at Ammons Dental By Design, we invite you to talk to us honestly and openly about your concerns so we can figure out the best options to make your entire visit to our office as stress-free and comfortable as possible. You have nothing to be ashamed of and we will always take your concerns seriously. We understand that anxiety triggered by dental-related thoughts and experiences can range in severity. Some patients may be able to calm their dental nerves with a few deep breaths and happy thoughts, or even with a bit of white-knuckled stress-ball squeezing. But sometimes patients need more calming assistance, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation.
IV Dental Sedation
Who Is a Candidate?
Nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation are best for mild to moderate cases of dental anxiety, but IV sedation is best for those with extreme dental anxiety and for individuals needing invasive and complex procedures.
What Will It Be Like?
Because of its specialized administration, not every dental office offers IV sedation, but we are certified to safely provide this sedation option. IV sedation is administered intravenously into your bloodstream through a thin needle inserted into one of your veins. You will feel completely calm and comfortable and will still be able to breathe without assistance. Depending on the level of sedation, you may be able to talk or you may be in a sleep-like state. Thus, you’ll have reduced anxiety and likely won’t remember what’s happening during your dental procedure. And our expert team will monitor your heart rate and safety the entire time.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before receiving IV sedation, individuals will need to avoid alcohol for 24 hours and eating and drinking for 6 hours, though water can be consumed up to 2 hours before. After the procedure, you will feel sleepy, disoriented, and wobbly as the sedation wears off. Therefore, a family member or friend will have to give you a ride home. This also means you should leave the rest of your day free for adequate rest before returning to work or vigorous activity. We advise you to avoid driving, operating machinery, and signing important documents for at least 24 hours. Contact us with any additional questions about IV dental sedation!
