Sedation

Cosmetic dentistry has enabled the transformation of countless smiles through the years. When you can repair something you don’t like about your smile, you not only get a burst of confidence but it improves your overall well-being, too. Whether you seek something like teeth whitening or veneers or many choices in between, cosmetic options can lead to anxiety and fear. 

But what if there are solutions with sedation cosmetic dentistry that allow you to control and manage dental anxiety while also handling your dental or cosmetic needs? It’s a great solution that offers many anxious patients the support they need to get through a procedure. 

What Exactly is Cosmetic Dentistry? 

Cosmetic dentistry is described as a dental procedure that works to improve your smile. It is dentistry that goes above and beyond basic needs like dental cleanings and handling cavities. Instead, these are procedures that perfect your smile. 

For some people, the process may be as simple as undergoing teeth whitening. Others may need veneers, orthodontics, or other solutions to achieve their smile goals. There are various procedures and treatments that can be used to get there. 

What is Sedation Dentistry? 

Sedation dentistry can be used alongside any type of dental treatment or procedure. It’s the use of medication to help a patient relax and remain calm throughout their appointments and procedures. There are three main types of sedation: 

• IV sedation
• Oral sedation
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

Each of these are used for different needs and have their own pros and cons. You can work with your dentist to determine the best approach for your needs. 

The Benefits of Sedation Cosmetic Dentistry

There are many benefits of combining sedation options with cosmetic needs. Many cosmetic procedures require more detailed approaches and could easily make a patient more nervous about their experience. If you are apprehensive about cosmetic treatments, sedation simply allows you to be comfortable and relaxed while the dentist does what they need to do. 

These are some of the most substantial benefits: 

• Reduce patient anxiety
• Increase patient comfort
• Improve safety of dentist and patient
• Improve time efficiency for the procedure

Sedation helps both you and the dentist. When you are anxious, it’s hard for you to let the dentist do what they need to do. When you use sedation to help relax you, they can get the work done more easily. 

Things to Consider Before Using Sedation

There are a few things you should consider before you choose sedation for your cosmetic procedures. Ultimately, you and the dentist’s office will need to sit down and go over the details to determine whether it is right for you. Consider your medical history and whether or not sedation or medications may impact your health. The dentist’s office will need to be made aware of any underlying health conditions you may have in order to keep you safe. 

In addition, sedation often requires additional costs. While the tradeoff of being calm and relaxed is typically worth it, you may need to plan or prepare for those costs ahead of time. Take the time to understand the sedation method that will be used so you can be prepared for any side effects you might experience following your procedure. 

Sedation Cosmetic Dentists You Can Depend On

The idea of cosmetic procedures and sedation dentistry can be a lot to take in. However, you might be surprised to find that they are a great tool that works well when used correctly. Count on a dentist office with extensive experience using sedation to work through a variety of cosmetic dental needs. 

Contact us today at Smith Dental Care to learn more about the options and schedule a consultation for your cosmetic needs. 

Dental anxiety is a pretty common issue. According to the Cleveland Clinic, approximately 36% of people experience dental phobia, making them anxious about receiving needed treatment. About 12% of those people are said to have an extreme fear. This dental phobia makes it challenging for the patient to come to the dentist. While most dentists will do their best to make the patient feel at ease, it’s still hard to do so and ensure they get the care they need. 

Thankfully, there are tools available for overcoming dental phobia and getting dental care. The most common solution is sedation dentistry, which we proudly offer here at Smith Dental Care. 

As with any phobia, dental phobia is an uncontrollable and persistent fear of going to the dentist. It may seem irrational to others, but to the person experiencing the anxiety, it is very real. Those with dental phobia may experience anything from mild anxiety to crippling fear that prevents them from seeking care. 

What is Dental Phobia? 

They may fear different aspects of the dental visit, including just sitting in the chair. Some worry about pain, needles and drills, not being in control, or just not knowing what to expect. It may come from a traumatic experience, or it may not be based on any prior encounter. 

How Dental Phobia Affects Dental Care

Those who do experience dental phobia often put off their dental care because of the anxiety. Some will not go to the dentist until they have an emergent situation, and others may struggle with every visit. The inability to maintain proper oral health can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and other dental issues. 

Leaving dental needs untreated can contribute to a host of other health issues as well, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Dental care is critical. 

Overcoming Dental Phobia with Sedation Dentistry

One of the best ways to make a customer feel more at ease while they visit the dentist is with sedation dentistry. With the options available, a patient can prepare for the visit and remain calm throughout any cleaning or procedure that is needed. It also helps to use a dentist’s office that makes you feel comfortable to the best of their ability. When you combine sedation solutions with optimal care and treatment, you get wonderful results. 

The most commonly used forms of sedation are as follows: 

• Nitrous oxide: also known as laughing gas, this is the most common sedation choice. It’s breathed in through a mask on your nose and will make you feel relaxed and euphoric. The sedation wears off almost immediately when the mask is removed. 
• Oral sedation: take an oral medication prior to coming to the office so that you feel relaxed and calm before you even come in. This may help calm you enough to get to the office. Some medications may cause drowsiness and grogginess. 
• IV sedation: the other option is IV sedation, which enters your bloodstream directly through an IV. It’s a heavy sedation that may even make you fall asleep. It is controlled throughout the entire process, and it works quickly. You may feel some lasting effects after an IV as well. 

Sedation dentistry allows the patient to get the care they need and provides the dentist with the solutions to help you get taken care of. 

Let Smith Dental Care Work with You Through Dental Anxiety

Overcoming dental phobia can certainly be challenging, but know that you are not alone. There are solutions for you to get the dental care you need and feel safe and relaxed while you do. 

Let Smith Dental Care help you through it. With our sedation dentistry solutions and an office that truly cares about making our patients feel comfortable, we can help you find the best solution. Contact us today to learn more! 

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