To maintain excellent oral health, it’s a must to visit your local dentist at least two times a year for preventive care. There’s a major roadblock standing in your way, though. The thought of a dental appointment leaves you feeling anxious. You’re at a crossroads – should you abandon the care you need or press ahead even though you’re not comfortable? Read on to learn how sedation dentistry in Lakeway provides the perfect compromise!
If visiting your dentist makes you feel uneasy, then you’re not by yourself. Studies show that over 30 million Americans suffer from either dental anxiety or phobia, which can prevent them from receiving semi-annual care or the treatments needed to restore their oral health.
Sedation dentistry provides a way to overcome your fears so you can enjoy comfortable and worry-free dental care. Your local dentist offers three types to accommodate your specific needs.
Nitrous OxideAlso called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used for mild-to-moderate anxiety. The medication is delivered via a nasal mask that is worn throughout the treatment process.
Here are some of its benefits:
For more acute cases of anxiety or phobia, your dentist may recommend oral conscious sedation. You’ll be given a pill to take roughly an hour before your appointment, so that by the time you arrive for care, you’ll be more relaxed.
For this treatment, though, you’ll need to have a helper with you because the effects usually take hours to fully wane. Thus, it’s not safe to drive a vehicle or operate machinery afterwards.
IV Sedation
For lengthy or complex procedures, you may need IV sedation. This involves medication being delivered directly into the bloodstream that often causes patients to sleep throughout the treatment process.
Once the procedure is done, the medication will be discontinued, and you’ll be allowed time to regain consciousness and recover. Again, you’ll need a driver for the rest of the day.
Now that you’re aware of the ways available to get the dental care you need without having to settle for feeling anxious or phobic, it’s up to you to be proactive. Reach out to your Lakeway dentist to schedule a visit to receive the comfortable care you need today!
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Eaddy earned his DDS degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Dentistry. He then went on to receive advanced training in all specialty areas of dentistry. Dr. Daniel takes pride in making every patient feel safe and relaxed at Eaddy Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information through his website.
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