Do you have a hard time remembering the last time you saw your dentist? Are you positive it was more than several years ago, possibly even a decade? If so, you likely already know that you are overdue for a dental visit, but what is stopping you from going? Could dental anxiety be to blame for your avoidance? Professional preventive dental care is key to keeping one’s smile healthy over time. Unfortunately, many patients struggle to visit the dentist regularly, either because of bad experience in the past, or simply a generalized fear of dentistry. Thankfully, sedation provides a safe and effective way for many people to overcome their anxiety, in order to receive the care their smiles need. So, could you benefit from the use of sedation dentistry?
Even when teeth are seemingly healthy, they could still be at risk of developing cavities and other dental issues, due to plaque buildup. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove plaque once it has calcified onto the surface of teeth. Unfortunately, for patients struggling with moderate to severe dental anxiety, knowing how important visits are simply isn’t always enough to compel them to actually go see their dentist.
Sedation offers a safe way for many patients to overcome their fears. It can also help keep patients calm and comfortable during extensive restorative treatment. Nitrous oxide, commonly called “laughing gas,” is one sedation option many dentists offer. It is fast and effective, but also wears off quickly, which allows most patients to return to work or school after its use. Oral sedatives are another option, though, and one that can be particularly helpful to patients struggling with severe dental anxiety, since an oral sedative can be taken prior to the visit.
Sedation dentistry can help people overcome their dental anxiety. Scott Dooley, DDS offers sedition options for patients in need of preventive or restorative care. You can schedule an appointment, by contacting us today at 972-495-8100. We have patient forms available online. We are proud to serve patients from Garland, TX, as well as those in Richardson, Dallas, Wylie, Sachse, and all surrounding communities.