Don’t neglect your dental health because of fear! When you evade the dentist because of fear and anxiety, minor dental issues can become big dental problems that require more invasive treatment.
According to the Journal of Dental Hygiene, you are not alone.
According to researchers, anywhere between 50 and 80% of adults in the United States have some degree of dental anxiety, ranging from mild to severe. More than 20% of dentally anxious patients do not see a dentist regularly, and anywhere from 9 to 15% of anxious patients avoid care altogether.
Source: jdh.adha.org
There is no need to be nervous about having sedation dentistry at our practice. At Thousand Oaks Smile Design we offer different options of sedation dentistry that will help you overcome the fear and receive the treatment you need in comfort.
Dr. Daniel Elbert in collaboration with a board-certified Sedation doctor will provide you with the most comfortable dental experience possible.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients who suffer from anxiety associated with dental procedures.
How do I know if I am a candidate for sedation?
Dr. Elbert in collaboration with a board-certified Sedation doctor will take a thorough medical history and physical assessment before proceeding. On some occasions, a medical clearance may be required. Some of these conditions that may require clearance from a physician are cardiac disease, hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory diseases.
What are the types of dental sedation?
Mild sedation You remain awake or very sleepy throughout the entire procedure and are able to breathe on your own, but you will feel a great sense of relaxation. Patients typically recover from anxiolysis sedation within a few hours after the procedure is complete.
Moderate sedation - Used for patients with moderate dental anxiety and for patients who need longer or more complex procedures, conscious sedation often refers to the use of light IV sedation. With conscious sedation, you will remain awake throughout your procedure but will be in a deep state of relaxation. It is recommended that patients who receive conscious sedation have a parent, spouse, or friend accompany them to appointments because it can take several hours for the sedative to wear off and driving may be unsafe.
Deep sedation - Patients receiving deep sedation go between consciousness and unconsciousness during their dental procedure. Patients often have no recollection of the treatment and are unable to respond to commands even if they are awake at times during the procedure. It is recommended that patients who receive deep sedation have a parent, spouse, or friend accompany them to appointments because it can take several hours for the sedative to wear off, and driving may be unsafe.
How Are Sedatives Administered?
Oral - A common technique for dental sedation is oral sedation. It’s quick, easy, and does not require the use of needles. You will be given a prescription of pills to take about an hour before your appointment, and you will be fully relaxed by the time you arrive at our office.
Intravenous (IV) - This technique will allow the dentist to provide deeper sedation, although you will still be awake but less aware of the procedure. The process requires recovery time after you leave the office.
Contact us for a consultation or to learn more about Thousand Oaks Smile Design treatment options!