We look forward to seeing you each time you visit our office. But we know that you may not be so anxious to see us because you could be one of 75% of the population that suffers from dental anxiety.
There are instruments and sounds that can trigger this fear and, sometimes, even previous bad dental experiences can leave you with a dread of the dental office. We know it can cause stress and lead you to avoid keeping your appointments, which of course isn’t good for your oral health. Read on to learn our way of helping you deal with your anxiety so you can get the care you need.
What Relaxation Dentistry Is
Simply put, the process of creating a stress-free, relaxing dental experience for you is relaxation dentistry. Our process involves two levels of sedation: mild and moderate. We want you to experience a soothing, comfortable time with us, but we do not put you to “sleep” as with anesthesia.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is a gas mixture you will inhale through a comfortable mask that fits over your nose. You will be awake, but the nitrous oxide helps you to relax. The effects wear off quickly, so you won’t need someone to drive you to or from your appointment.
Oral Sedation
We will give you a pill to take an hour before your procedure. It will diminish your awareness of sounds, odors, and discomfort. By the time you arrive for your procedure, you will feel relaxed and stress-free. Because of the level of sedation, you will need a driver to deliver you to our office and then back home.
Sedation dentistry might be the answer for you if you struggle with dental anxiety. Time will seem to quickly pass and even longer appointments will seem to fly by. Being able to complete complex procedures in one visit reduces the need for you to return and saves you time and anxiety.
We know that relaxation dentistry might not make you look forward to a visit with us, but we think it can help you to relax and release your anxiety. If you have been postponing a needed visit to us, consider relaxation dentistry. Contact my office today to schedule a consultation to see what it can do for you.
Best,
Dr. Sorkin