At Boger Dental, we are trained to be sensitive to dental phobias. Call us to learn more.
Many people experience dental anxiety. In fact, dental fear is cited as the number one reason why people avoid seeing the dentist. It is estimated that as many as 75% of US adults experience some degree of dental fear, from mild to severe. At the extreme, a person who experiences dental phobia may never see the dentist. Others may force themselves to go, but the visit is clouded in anxiety.
People who are fearful of dental care often fall into a “cycle of avoidance,” in which they avoid care until a dental emergency requiring invasive treatment occurs. This, in turn, reinforces their fear of dentistry. But it doesn’t have to be this way. New treatment options are available for people who experience any level of dental anxiety.
We understand that dental anxiety is most likely formed by direct experience. If you suffer from a dental condition like TMJ Disorder, your anxiety may be especially high. So, it’s important to find the right dentist.
Our goal is to help patients relax during their visit by discussing their fears in a non-clinical environment prior to any procedure.
Our friendly staff is also trained to administer the latest options in sedation dentistry, including:
As dental professionals, we know how to help you overcome dental anxiety using a combination of behavioral strategies and pharmacological techniques. So put your fears to rest, we’ve got you covered!
Learn how Sedation Dentistry can put your fears to rest in our free eBook. Regardless of your level of dental anxiety, find out how you can maintain your oral health and show off a beautiful smile.
A common method to reduce fear and anxiety related to visiting the dentist is the use of oral sedation in the form of pills. Anti-anxiety medication such as Valium and Halcion bind with the receptors in your brain that are responsible for fear to help you remain calm.
Depending on the dosage and type of medication, you’ll feel a sense of calm, drowsiness, minor amnesia, and tingling sensations.
While these sedatives may help you feel calmer and sometimes drowsy during dental treatment, you’ll still be conscious and able to communicate with the dental staff. Due to the lasting effects of oral sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home after the appointment.
The benefits of Sedation Dentistry include:
At Boger Dental, we are trained to be sensitive to dental phobias and we will do all that we can to make your experience comfortable, both physically and emotionally. With sedation options, we can help you through your dental appointment with little to no anxiety. We want you to rest easy, knowing that we always do our best to make sure you’re comfortable.
If you’re considering sedation, here is what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure.
If you’re considering sedation dentistry, the first step is scheduling a consultation with your dentist’s office.
They’ll listen to your wants and needs, and look at your medical records to help determine if sedation is right for you. Remember, you may not be a candidate for dental sedation if you suffer from complications including use of certain medications, obstructive sleep apnea, heart conditions, or weight conditions.
If you are a candidate for sedation, your dentist’s office will help you determine the type of sedation that’s right for you.
When you arrive for your appointment, it’s normal to be a little nervous. At Boger Dental, we are trained to be sensitive to dental phobias and we will do all that we can to make your experience comfortable for you, both emotionally as well as physically.
If you’ve chosen laughing gas (inhalation sedation), the effects will wear off within minutes of the end of your procedure. You will be able to drive yourself home.
If you’ve chosen oral or IV sedation, you will wake up in our recovery room. Since oral and IV sedatives take a longer period to wear off, you will need someone else to drive you home.
Once you’re home, relax! Your body needs time to recover after oral surgery. Sometimes, you’ll need to eat a soft diet or avoid certain foods for a few weeks. Talk to your dentist if you have questions about your unique situation.
As with any sedation procedure, there are always some risks involved. However, these risks can be minimized by an experienced dentist who has the proper education, certification, and permits to use sedation as a part of their practice. When proper steps are taken, sedation dentistry is considered safe to use even for children.
Not everyone is a candidate for dental sedation. Risks that could lead to complications include certain medications, obstructive sleep apnea, heart conditions, or weight. At your consultation, your dentist will help you determine whether sedation is right for you.
Dental staff will monitor your health and well-being throughout your treatment. They’ll also help you prepare for what to expect after your treatment is complete, including if you’ll need to plan for a ride home, and if you’ll need to make changes to your diet during your recovery.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about sedation dentistry. You can ask about the dosage of the sedative being used, about the training and experience of the dentist and support staff, and any questions you have about what to expect.
Sedation dentistry is a safe way to help you relax during dental treatments. There are some risks involved, but they can be minimized by following the proper steps. Today, dental sedation is considered safe even for children.
Is sedation dentistry right for you? Want to learn more about your sedation options? Contact Boger Dental to schedule your consultation today.
To learn more about your dental sedation options, please request a consultation online. If you'd rather speak on the phone, call (763) 546-7707. If you prefer email, drop us a line at patientcare@bogerdental.com and we'll be happy to help!
