February 17, 2016

If being afraid of the dentist has kept you out of the dentist’s chair for far too long, you’re not alone. Many people cite fear as the key reason why they do not schedule those important yearly dental checkups. If you have been struggling with a fear of needles, sensitive teeth, or if you have had unpleasant dental experiences in the past, sedation dentistry performed by a general dentist can help put your fears to rest.

 

What is it?

So what is sedation dentistry? Sedation dentistry can be administered though a pill, an inhaled gas, or through an injection, resulting in a relaxed and calm feeling during dental procedures. This can help patients have a less painful and anxiety-inducing experience while at the dentist.

 

Types of Sedation

There are various levels of sedation. In our office, we offer three types of sedation:

  • Oral Sedation: This is sedation in pill form, taken about an hour before your appointment, which can reduce your anxiety and help ease pain. It can make you groggy and drowsy, thus requiring a ride to and from your appointment.
  • Nitrous Oxide: Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous is administered in the office by a general dentist just prior to your procedure, and it wears off within minutes so that you can drive yourself home.
  • Local Anesthetic: This is used to help relieve severe pain, such as during highly invasive procedures and emergency situations, and it can be injected directly into painful areas.

 

How Sedation Can Help You

Sedation dentistry is a great option for people who are afraid of pain or needles, or for those who have unpleasant memories from past dental experiences. With sedation dentistry, you can finally schedule necessary dental procedures and checkups without worrying about pain and anxiety.

Sedation dentistry can help provide the safe, calm atmosphere you need for your dental checkup or procedure. Call us at 405.757.2122 to schedule your fearless checkup with Dr. Van Horn, dentist in Oklahoma City today.

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