Whether you require extensive oral surgery or simply need help relaxing during an appointment, sedation allows your treatment to run smoothly. Complex procedures such as wisdom teeth extractions take time and would be difficult to experience even for someone who has no dental anxiety. Sedation allows your dentist to provide you with the most comfortable experience possible, and can help guarantee your continued commitment to biannual appointments.
Sedation and Dental Anxiety
It’s no secret that a dental office may not be a comfortable environment for some patients. If you’ve never been in such a setting before or had a bad previous experience, a dental appointment can be stressful regardless of your dentist’s bedside manner. When anxiety stands between you and your oral health, sedation allows you to relax and receive the treatment you need.
Common Types of Sedation
Common forms of sedation include nitrous oxide and IV sedation. Nitrous, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is typically administered through a mask that delivers a safe but effective amount of sedation. You will remain conscious but become deeply relaxed; in other words, you will not feel discomfort. Nitrous is especially convenient for those undergoing lengthy procedures, such as wisdom teeth extractions.
IV sedation is stronger and will leave you with little to no memory of the procedure. This option is useful for more involved surgeries, such as extensive oral and facial repair after an accident. But regardless of your choice in sedation, it’s always important to have a ride to and from the doctor’s office.
The Importance of Trusting Your Dentist
While sedation is extremely useful for certain patients, it’s important in any case to form a trusting relationship with your dentist. Being able to voice concerns about your oral health or asking questions, in general, can help you gain a full understanding of your treatment and allow you to relax during appointments. Think of a dentist as your partner in oral health; you both have the same goals and desire a positive, healthy outcome.
For more information on sedation options, or to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons, call Willowbrook Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Langley today!