For many people, a dental office is simply a place for routine checkups that results in brighter, healthier, and more beautiful smiles. For others, the mere thought of it is enough to turn clammy, and anxious. And going there? That’s another thing entirely.
Dental anxiety affects millions of people, preventing them from getting the dental care they need. At Smile Center in Buffalo, NY, we do everything possible to help our patients overcome their anxiety to get the care they deserve.
That’s where our sedation dentistry services come in. We provide safe and effective methods to manage dental anxiety — from the mildest to the most debilitating cases.
Our compassionate team is here to shine a light on sedation dentistry and how it can help you.
Common Dental Anxiety Symptoms
It’s estimated that over 60% of people have dental anxiety. And for 4% of these people, it’s so severe that they’ve never set foot in a dentist’s office. Sadly, that means that these folks are likely suffering from the result of poor oral health, which affects their overall health in many other ways.
Here are some of the hallmarks of dental anxiety:
- Emotional symptoms: anxiety, fear, nervousness, and panic attacks
- Physical symptoms: sweating, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and difficulty with breathing
- Behavioral symptoms: avoidance, difficulty sitting still in the dentist chair, and canceling appointments at the last minute
Plenty of factors are at play when it comes to the cause of one’s dental anxiety, such as:
- Negative past experience
- Fear of pain
- Fear of loss of control
- Embarrassment about their dental health and oral habits
How to Deal With Dental Anxiety
Rather than avoiding the dentist altogether, there are a few solutions for dental anxiety. One of the most popular options is to find a dentist that offers sedation dentistry services near you. It also helps to work with a dentist and staff that see severe dental anxiety on a regular basis.
At Smile Center, catering to patients with dental anxiety is one of our cornerstone services. Our compassionate providers know what you’re experiencing, and we stop at nothing to make you comfortable throughout your visit.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a method of dental anxiety management. It’s one of the most effective and safest ways to help patients relax and feel more comfortable during dental procedures. This is not only appropriate for patients with dental anxiety, but it’s also a great option for people who have a strong gag reflex or have complex dental procedures that might take some time to finish.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
At Smile Center, we offer 3 levels of sedation:
Nitrous Oxide or Laughing Gas. A mild sedative that is breathed in through a gas mask. This creates a sense of lightheadedness and relaxation once inhaled. However, you’re still conscious and responsive to conversation or instructions.
Oral Conscious Sedation. A moderate-level sedative. Before your procedure, patients will take a pill that induces a relaxed state. Patients might not have any recollection of some details of their procedure.
IV Sedation or Deep Sedation. The heaviest form of sedation is delivered through an intravenous (IV) line. You’ll have little to no memory of your dental procedure, so it’s likely the best option for patients with severe anxiety.
How Sedation Dentistry Can Help with Dental Anxiety
Sedation for a dental visit may sound a little extreme to some people, but for many people it’s a life (and tooth!) saver.
- Reduce fear and anxiety and boost comfort. Feel calmer and more comfortable, making the entire experience less stressful
- Pain management. Some levels of sedation can help patients manage pain more effectively during dental procedures.
- Improved cooperation. A cooperative patient is important for dentists, allowing them to provide the best possible care.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes! Sedation dentistry is safe and effective. It allows people to get treatment who wouldn’t otherwise be able to handle sitting in a dentist’s chair. When sedatives are administered by knowledgeable professionals — like the providers at Smile Center — you can rest assured that you’re safe and well cared for.
Defeat Dental Anxiety and Improve Oral Health with Smile Center in Buffalo, NY
Dental anxiety is no joke. It’s a crippling experience that can stop people from getting the dental care they need and deserve.
If you experience dental anxiety, there are a few things you can try to manage it yourself:
- Relaxation techniques. Breathing exercises, meditation, and muscle relaxation can help ease your anxiety, making it more manageable
- Talk to your dentist. Having dental anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of. You’re not alone and dentists are no stranger to it. By letting your dentist know about your dental anxiety during a consultation, the two of you can discuss ways to make your dental visits more comfortable.
- Sedation dentistry. In some cases, your dentist may recommend sedation dentistry which can make dental care far more accessible for the most anxious patients.
Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from having the healthy smile of your dreams. Smile Center has comfortable amenities, a relaxing atmosphere, and friendly staff to make your experience the best one possible.
Contact Smile Center today to book an appointment or inquire about our sedation dentistry services!