Did you know that approximately 9 to 15 percent of Americans suffer from such severe dental anxiety that they avoid seeing the dentist or periodontist? If you need periodontal care but have been too afraid to schedule an appointment, you can most likely benefit from sedation dentistry. Drs. Thomas and Mark McCawley offer two different types of sedation dentistry to help reduce patient fear and improve comfort during treatment. The type of sedation they will recommend for you will be based primarily on the severity of your anxiety as well as your individual preferences.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is highly effective at inducing relaxation and minimizing anxiety without the use of a needle. It is given in tablet form and is designed to be taken approximately one hour ahead of your appointment. By the time your scheduled appointment arrives, you will feel relaxed and a little bit drowsy. For these reasons, it is important to arrange transportation to and from your appointment.
Once you are sufficiently at ease, our periodontists will then begin treatment. To further ensure your comfort, a blanket may be placed on you during the procedure. You will be able to respond to directions during treatment but will feel calm and peaceful.
Intravenous Sedation
Intravenous sedation can be used to maximize comfort for patients with severe dental anxiety. It is administered intravenously and can be quickly adjusted as needed for maximum comfort. This type of sedation can make it possible for you to receive all or most of the oral treatments you need within a single office visit.
Schedule Your Appointment
If dental anxiety is keeping you from receiving the oral care you need from an experienced periodontist, you may be an excellent candidate for sedation dentistry. To find out more about this convenient treatment option or to schedule your appointment, call McCawley Center for Laser Periodontics and Implants today.