Approximately 1-in-3 people suffer from dental anxiety. From mild nervousness to a severe dental phobia, there are several reasons why someone may feel that way. Some have had bad experiences in the past, while others have extremely hypersensitive teeth or claustrophobia.
Ultimately, dental anxiety can interfere with your ability to access the care that you need. Fortunately, sedation dentistry near you can make it possible to comfortably complete your dental treatment in a calm and relaxing manner.
Sedation Dentistry Encinitas
Oral sedation dentistry, as well as other levels of dental sedation, are a convenient way to combat dental anxiety. With dental sedation, it’s possible to complete your necessary care in fewer appointments so that you’re back on track to prevent other issues before they start.
Many of our patients find that seeing a sedation dentist in Encinitas prevents them from needing sedation at each recurring appointment. Once they’ve “caught up” on the restorative treatment they need, ongoing and gentle preventative care helps them view dentistry in a new light.
Types of Sleep Dentistry Near You
Dental sedation comes in a variety of levels. Depending on which sedation dentist you’re seeing and the type of options available, you can choose from options like a light laughing gas (nitrous oxide), oral sedation, or even intravenous medication.
Oral sedation is a safe and convenient way to feel as if you’re napping through your dental appointment. It works by taking a prescription medication about an hour before your procedure. You’ll feel like you’re dozing off, even though you’ll still be conscious enough to answer any questions. The amnesic effect of oral sedation means that most people won’t remember much — if anything — about their appointment at all.
As you might guess, anything stronger than laughing gas will cause you to feel a little drowsy after your dental appointment. You’ll need to have a family member or close friend come with you to drive you home afterward. It can take a few hours for the effects to fully wear off.
Should You See a Sedation Dentist?
We highly recommend considering dental sedation if you fall into one of these categories:
- You Have Dental Anxiety — Dental anxiety can range from mild and manageable to physically debilitating. Even if you like your dentist or are friends with him, you may not be able to use a “mind over matter” approach if you need dental care. And that’s ok. That’s exactly why we offer dental sedation. If you feel even the slightest bit nervous about a particular procedure, sedation is always an option.
- You’re Afraid of What it Will Feel Like — Maybe you don’t have dental anxiety per se, but you just don’t like going to the dentist. You’re not alone. The unknowns of having someone work on your teeth or worrying about what it might feel like is often enough to deter people from getting the treatment that they need.
- You Need Major Dental Treatment — Do you need a lot of treatment to get your smile back into a healthy state? Maybe you need multiple appointments or there are more “major” types of therapies that are being recommended to help you get there. If that’s the case, we highly encourage you to consider planning those services alongside a sedation appointment. You’ll be glad that you did, both for comfort and efficiency’s sake.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of sedation qualifications. Sedation is available to anyone upon request. A lot of people are uncertain about whether they should request sedation or they feel embarrassed to ask about it. Our practice is a judgment-free zone where we’re committed to your comfort. We’re happy to answer any questions!
Sedation Dentist Near You
Skeens Family Dentistry in Encinitas provides gentle, safe sedation dentistry for our patients. If you’ve been delaying your care because of dental anxiety, we encourage you to contact our office. Dr. Skeens and our friendly staff are committed to ensuring a positive experience so that you can access the care your smile needs. Call us today to reserve an appointment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES AT ENCINITAS FAMILY DENTISTRY
At our core, Encinitas Dentistry is a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile. How we accomplish that goal is what makes us stand out. We mingle time-tested approaches to oral care with state-of-the-art technology and procedures to deliver beautiful, long-lasting smiles!