Did you know that the American Dental Association has estimated that approximately 36% of American adults experience some form of anxiety when visiting their dentist? Thankfully, many providers offer sedatives that can soothe your frayed nerves and help you get through your appointment successfully.
But that’s not the only reason your dentist might recommend these medications. Continue reading to learn 3 additional advantages of dental sedation above and beyond ‘just’ easing your anxiety!
Benefit #1: Address Potential Discomfort
One of the reasons many people fear visiting their dentist is that they’re worried their treatments will be long and agonizing. This is especially true if you have a more complex procedure to undergo, like a root canal or placing a dental crown.
Fortunately, dental sedation reduces your body’s response to external stimuli, helping you remain calm and comfortable. Some options, like oral conscious sedation that’s taken as a pill before you arrive, induce a deep sense of relaxation, though you remain awake enough to respond to your dentist’s questions or directions. Other medications, like general anesthesia, render you unconscious, and you won’t remember your procedure after the fact.
Benefit #2: Faster Appointments
Your provider knows that it’s typically easier to work with a compliant patient than one who is anxious, fidgety, or hurting. If your reactions during your visit interrupt your dentist while they’re working, it will take them that much longer to complete your procedure.
In some cases, medications are offered to help you stay still, which can save time. Not only might this reduce the time you spend in the office for your appointment, but it can also help avoid the need for multiple visits to complete a single service.
Benefit #3: Reduce Gag Reflex
Dental sedation is also a popular way to help those with an overly sensitive gag reflex get through their visit. If you’re easily triggered, anything from a routine exam to getting a root canal might trigger the muscles in the back of your throat to contract involuntarily, cutting off your air supply. Unfortunately, this is often also accompanied by muscle spasms in the abdomen, which can result in nausea and vomiting.
Your dentist can help you feel comfortable and prevent potential problems by sedating you before starting your procedure.
Although dental sedation is considered safe for most people when administered by a qualified provider, that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone’s unique circumstances. The only way to determine if you’re a good candidate is to consult your dentist directly!
Meet the Author
Dr. Frank Ford has 14 years of experience helping patients in Grand Prairie build and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston and completed a Medical Anesthesiology Residency program at the Baylor College of Medicine at Houston. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services to meet even the most unique needs, including options for sedation. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 296-0101.