In fact, according to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, about 25 percent of American adults suffer from some degree of dental anxiety or fear of the dentist, often referred to as “dentophobia.” This particular phobia causes people to avoid the dentist for years, sometimes decades, causing their dental health to deteriorate. People with dental phobia may avoid routine dental cleanings, checkups, and even simple procedures. And the longer they go without treatment, the more dangerous their condition becomes.

Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is the practice of using sedation medication to calm a patient’s nerves and make dental visits and procedures more comfortable. Sedation dentistry can be extremely beneficial for patients with dental anxiety.

Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

Anyone who fears going to the dentist can benefit from sedation dentistry. Patients who are nervous, anxious, or fearful about dental treatment can find sedation dentistry helpful for them. Some patients experience difficulty getting numb, and sedation dentistry can help them as well. Besides, those who can’t sit still for a long period of time or those who are undergoing lengthy, time-consuming dental procedures can also benefit from sedation dentistry procedures.

Types of Sedation

Sedative medications may be administered orally, intravenously, or through inhalation.

• Oral sedatives: These medications are taken by mouth, and they induce calmness and reduce anxiety. Oral sedation allows patients to undergo the procedure without anxiety or fear. Patients will remain conscious during the procedure, but they will remain very relaxed.
• Nitrous oxide: Also known as laughing gas, this sedation method can be inhaled through a small mask that fits over the nose. The gas helps to ease anxiety, increase relaxation, and induce sleepiness. The gas is inhaled throughout the procedure, and patients are able to breathe on their own. The gas wears off quickly, and patients are able to drive themselves home.
• IV sedation: IV sedation involves the use of an intravenous (IV) line to deliver sedative medications. These medications are administered by a licensed dentist or dental anesthesiologist. Patients who receive IV sedation typically feel very relaxed during treatment. However, they will remain conscious and responsive to verbal cues from the dentist.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Dental sedation is safe; the dentist will administer the sedation medications, and the patient will be monitored throughout their appointment. Sedation dentistry is completely safe when administered by a licensed professional.

Contact The Florida Center for Laser Dentistry at (727) 862-8513 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about sedation dentistry. We are located at 12124 Cobble Stone Dr, Hudson, FL 34667,