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In general, we all have something that we fear. Yes, everyone has something they fear! 

For some, it could be public speaking, and for others, it could be a fear of heights, and for some, it’s a fear of going to the dentist. For years, it has been no mystery that many grown adults avoid visiting the dentist.

Approximately five years ago, in 2015, it was known that over 58% of the population exhibited dental anxiety and about 17% of those individuals avoided the dentist altogether. Today it is estimated that 50 million Americans have a fear of needles.

Dentist for Cowards is here to help find a dentist designed for you!

We know that for some the thought of getting dental work is overwhelming and understandably so. That’s why we’re here to help decipher so of the most important things you should know when it comes to sedation dentistry. In our article we’ll cover these important topics:

• What is sedation dentistry? We’ve got all the details on sedation dentistry!
• What kind of sedation do dentists use? We’ll discuss all of your options.
• Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry? Below are reasons you may or may not be a good candidate.
• How does conscious sedation make you feel? We offer an explanation of what you can expect when it comes to sedation dentistry.
• What are the risks of sedation dentistry? Listed below are some contraindications for “sedation dentistry near me.”
• What are some of the commitments to consider before saying “yes” to sedation dentistry? Things you should think about before doing sedation      dentistry.
• How has sedation changed dentistry? Learn why sedation dentistry might be a great option for you!
• What should you look for when choosing a dentist? Three important factors to consider when choosing a sedation dentist.
  
  

So, Why Do Patients Fear the Dentist?

Although there is no clear-cut answer or reason why dental phobia could be some people’s biggest fear, we all tend to hold on to fears deeply rooted in our past. It could be for various reasons, such as a negative previous experience. However, it is essential to remember that just as the past can have a powerful effect on us, we must not forget that the present and future can have the same impact.

Fear created by dental anxiety is widespread and normal. But, we must not let our past experiences lead us to believe that the future will be the same. Many factors likely contribute to dental anxiety. What’s important to realize is that if you or a family member avoid the dentist because of anxiety, it might be worth considering “sedation dentistry near me.” 

Just like you want to be sedated for other medical procedures such as a colonoscopy, for example, it’s completely understandable that you would want to consider sleeping through a dental procedure. That’s where “sedation dentistry near me” can come into play. Sedation dentistry is an extremely safe and effective method for helping you overcome dental anxiety. Also, “sedation dentistry near me” will allow you to rest comfortably during your dental procedures, ranging from simple restorative work to complex dental surgery. 

This guide will explain everything you need to know and what to expect when overcoming dental anxiety. Here you can learn how “sedation dentistry near me” could help you better manage your anxiety, thus allowing you complete much-needed and necessary dental work.

 

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Wish you could sleep through dental treatment? For many patients, sleep dentistry has completely changed dental treatment. Oral sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, involves using medications designed to help patients remain relaxed and calm. These same medications have even allowed some patients to sleep through their entire dental procedure. Any dentist that performs “sedation dentistry near me” does so with advanced, specialized training. A sedation dentist who has been appropriately trained can carry out multiple routine procedures or specialized dental procedures without causing a patient any stress. Sedation dentistry is a top solution for those who have dental phobia. Here’s how “sedation dentistry near me” works: 

Sedation dentistry is a great tool and can be used for many dental procedures. Yes, sedation dentistry can even be used for simple dental cleanings for certain patients who experience severe dental anxiety. In addition to being used for simple dental procedures, sedation dentistry can also be used for very complex dental procedures. Dental sedation offers patients relief from pain and anxiety, thus leading to a pleasant dental experience. Whether its “conscious sedation in dentistry” or general anesthesia, sedation is a great way to help you get the treatment you deserve.

Dental sedation specialists use various levels of sedation. An initial consultation with your sedation dentist will allow you to discuss your fears and any necessary treatment. With these facts in mind, together, you and your sedation dentist will decide which type of dental sedation will best fit your needs. Here’s a list of the various types of “sedation dentistry near me” that are commonly used: 

• Nitrous Oxide: This is the mildest form of sedation used in dentistry. Although it doesn’t do much for severe or extreme anxiety, it can still help reduce mild anxiety. Also, it can aid in decreasing discomfort for less invasive dental procedures. The proper name of this gas is nitrous oxide; however, the more common layman’s term is laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is administered to the patient via a small mask on their nose, which is known as a nasal hood. Nitrous oxide can reduce anxiety and dull the sensation of pain. The feeling could be compared to being similar to the effects of drinking a couple of glasses of wine. A great benefit of nitrous oxide use in the dental office is that it is entirely reversible within seconds. This is great because patients can drive themselves home after a dental procedure without any lingering side effects. There are also very few contraindications for the use of nitrous oxide. The two main contraindications are, however, respiratory infections and being pregnant. 

• Oral Sedation: Oral sedation is also known as enteral sedation. The option of oral sedation involves giving a patient a pill. This pill is either taken by mouth or placed under the tongue while at the dental office. The option of oral sedation can produce a deeper sedation level versus that of laughing gas alone, but it can be combined with laughing gas for a better effect. Oral sedation induces relaxation and even light sleep during procedures. Besides, oral sedation has the added benefit of reducing memory during procedures.
  
  Many times, patients believe they were asleep during the procedure, even if they were conscious. Conscious sedation in dentistry is generally completed with dental sedation drugs in the benzodiazepine family. Benzodiazepines often include drugs like Lorazepam or Triazolam and are among the top choices when it comes to dental sedation drugs. The doses for these medications can be titrated or adjusted for the desired level of sedation. Thus, a “custom” level of comfort can be achieved based upon the procedure’s length and the patient’s anxiety level. When opting for oral sedation, the patient will need to make arrangements to be driven to and from their appointment. Also, fasting is required for 6-8 hours before the procedure. The most significant disadvantage of oral sedation is titration. Because oral medications can take 30-45 minutes to enter the bloodstream, the sedation level cannot be quickly decreased or increased.

• IV Sedation: IV sedation is the top choice in sedation for patients who have more than mild or moderate anxiety regarding dentistry. IV sedation allows the most significant level of control when it comes to sedation. Oral sedation and IV sedation use similar medications, but the sedation level can be adjusted more precisely. Medication control is more precise because the drugs directly enter the bloodstream versus being taken orally and slowly absorbed.
  
  Because of the ability to dose more effectively and in real-time, IV sedation done in the dental office typically allows even the most anxious patients to be treated effectively. With IV sedation, medications will help both anxiety and pain. You will be in a relaxed state and will feel as though you slept throughout the entire procedure. Although you may still be conscious during the procedure, you won’t have much interest or concern in what is happening around you.

• General Anesthesia: General anesthesia produces the deepest level of sedation that is available in dentistry. Generally, general anesthesia is not necessary for most patients within the dental setting. General anesthesia should only be done by practitioners that are highly qualified with a degree in anesthesiology. It would also be useful to make sure these practitioners perform general anesthesia in the appropriate setting, such as a surgery center or a hospital. General anesthesia is used most frequently in patients with complex medical histories, those who have special needs, or those who require highly invasive surgical treatments.
  
  

Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry? 

Anxious patients at the dentist.
Sedation dentistry near me is an effective and safe solution that has helped many patients overcome their dental fear(s). As you build positive experiences and more confidence with your dental provider, the sedation level can often be reduced at future visits. Although it’s always an option, many severely anxious patients are shocked that they eventually no longer need sedation after multiple visits. Sedation dentistry helps patients face their fears more calmly and eventually desensitize them to their fear of dentists. 

Patients requiring numerous and or complicated dental procedures.
When it has been a while since your last dental visit, the amount of work can often be overwhelming. Patients quickly become stressed at the thought of having to make time in their already busy work schedule to complete several appointments. It’s not even an option for many celebrities and CEOs to fit appointments like this into their schedules. Since sedation dentistry can allow a significant amount of work to be completed at one time, many patients find outstanding value in the efficiency sedation dentistry creates. 

Special needs patients.
Patients with special needs often benefit from sedation dentistry because it makes visits less physically challenging, thus, more efficient. Often, patients with special needs develop a large number of dental issues and are unable to access care for a wide variety of reasons. Sedation dentistry will often help special needs patients overcome sensory challenges of smells, taste, pain, and texture that are often overwhelming. Their comfort plan can be customized based on the various needs that exist. 

What if I am afraid of needles when at the dentist? Is there a dentist that caters to cowards near me?

For any patient with a dental phobia or trypanophobia, their goal should be to build rapport with their dentist. Every dentist’s primary objective should be to understand your phobia’s full depth by talking and listening. A dentist specializing in dental anxiety will have special techniques to help make the patient as comfortable as possible, which begins with listening and talking.

Roughly 50 million Americans have a fear of needles that is considered severe. If you fear the dentist primarily because of needles, you’re not alone. A phobia of needles is prevalent, and that’s completely understandable. Some of the most common symptoms of needle phobia include:

• Extreme panic attacks 
• Fainting 
• Nausea
• Dizziness 
• Sweating 
• Rapid heart rate
• Increased blood pressure 
• Difficulty sleeping before the procedure 
• Physical resistance

For patients who have mild dental anxiety from dental needles, nitrous oxide is a form of sedation that helps reduce anxiety and pain during a dental procedure.

Oral sedation involves taking either one pill or a series of medications before arriving at the dentist and having them use any needles. Oral sedation reduces anxiety and places the patient into a sedated “dream-like” state, which, in turn, reduces anxiety about needles (or other dental tools).

For patients with severe needle phobia and severe dental anxiety, some dentists might recommend a combination of IV sedation and oral sedation. This particular technique involves sedating the patient using oral sedation before starting an IV. Sedation dentistry has changed dentistry for patients who experience various dental phobias, particularly those who experience a fear of needles. Just search for a “dentist for cowards near me” to find a dentist that can help you get the dental care you deserve.

What Should I Expect to Feel During Sedation Dentistry?

What is conscious sedation like? For any procedure that uses dental sedation, patient comfort is the highest priority. Patients will be offered items such as blankets, noise-canceling headphones so they can listen to the music of their choice, and every attempt will be made to accommodate any other special requests at the beginning of the visit. During the procedure, sedation may induce a light sleep for a majority of the time or all of the time.

If a patient is awake during the procedure, typically, they will feel extremely relaxed. The patient is always numbed with a local anesthetic, which means they will never feel any pain during the procedure. The dentist and their team will continuously monitor the patient for safety and comfort and will continually make necessary adjustments to keep the patient comfortable throughout the procedure.
 

 

Are You a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry Near Me? 

Sedation Dentistry Contraindications: 

Sometimes, medical conditions can prevent a person from being a good candidate for specific medical procedures, and in this case, it’s sedation dentistry. Some of the more common contraindications to sleep or sedation dentistry are:

1. Being pregnant.
2. Allergies to sedatives.
3. Compromised central nervous system.
4. Untreated glaucoma.
5. Severe medication resistance.
6. Uncontrolled respiratory or cardiac conditions. 

Commitments Required before Saying Yes to Sedation Dentistry Near Me: 

Sleep dentistry can be excellent because it allows for a large amount of treatment to be completed in a minimal number of visits. However, it is crucial to note that for sleep dentistry visits, there are some commitments. When opting for sedation dentistry, a patient should expect the following:

• Fasting: Plan to fast for at least 6 hours before your dental procedure.
• Time: Plan for enough time, which includes the appointment as well as time to recover. 
• Driving: Be sure to arrange for a ride to and from your appointment. 
• Alcohol and Medications: Avoid any alcohol or medications you haven’t discussed with your dentist before the procedure.
  
  

What are the Risks of Being Sedated while at the Dentist? 

As with any medical procedure, proper planning will always lead to success. Sedation dentistry that is performed by an experienced board-certified “sedation dentist near me” is considered very safe.

During all dental procedures that use sedation, the patient is continuously monitored. For IV and oral sedation, monitoring includes continuous checking of the pulse, blood oxygen, blood pressure, blood CO2 levels, and respirations. Although reversal is not typically needed, the medications can be fully reversed with the help of a reversal agent if at any point safety becomes a concern. The bottom line is that sedation dentistry near me always involves proper evaluation and planning.

 

What Is Sedation Dentistry Cost Near Me?

Does Insurance Cover Dental Sedation? Generally, most insurance companies do not pay for the cost of dental sedation. However, most insurance companies will contribute to the cost of your dental procedure/surgery. If you require an extensive amount of dental work, the investment of sedation dentistry will pay for itself when you consider other factors such as the benefit of efficiency. Affordable sedation dentistry near me is an option, but it’s vital that you do your homework. Make sure you’re enlisting a qualified dentist that offers the dental care you need. 

Because sedation dentistry allows several procedures to be completed in just one visit, it helps recoup the cost when you consider fewer visits overall. Fewer visits mean less disruption from work, which means fewer dollars in lost wages. Moreover, if you’re undergoing dental surgery or some other type of intensive dental treatment, your medical or dental insurance provider might cover the cost of sedation. In general, this is because sedation will allow the procedure to be completed in one appointment versus throughout multiple appointments. The amount of coverage offered by your insurance entirely depends upon your specific insurance policy. It is crucial to make sure you have a qualified sedation dentist experienced in all facets of sedation dentistry and dental anxiety.

 

Five Reasons Sedation Has Redefined Dentistry:

1. Anxiety Control. Dental anxiety is a well-known and widespread issue. Many patients tend to avoid the dentist for years because of anxiety, which unfortunately leads to poor dental health. Ultimately, poor dental health increases the amount of necessary treatment, which in turn further increases anxiety. Dental sedation helps patients redirect the stress encountered in a dental office and instead helps convert it into a relaxing, positive experience.

2. Eliminate Discomfort. Pain is, unfortunately, a natural part of life that all humans seek to avoid entirely, thus the reason why so many choose options to help make specific experiences much less painful. Pain during dental surgery and infections cannot be managed strictly with the use of local anesthesia. Sedation dentistry, along with local anesthesia, is crucial in systematically controlling pain.

3. Less Interruption of Your Work Schedule. Patients with complex dental concerns are often discouraged because they know they will require numerous appointments to complete their dental treatment entirely. Dental sedation helps patients with busy, successful lives condense their necessary treatment, so it can be completed more quickly.

4. Gag Reflex Control. A gag reflex is a natural reflex that helps protect us from injury. However, some people’s gag reflex is so sensitive that it prevents them from getting proper dental care. But, sedation dentistry can help; it will “dull” the gag reflex, therefore, allowing patients to complete needed dental treatment without the worry of “gagging.” 

5. Needle Phobia. If needles are preventing you from receiving the proper dental treatment, sedation dentistry could help you. Not only could it help you obtain the necessary treatment, but it could also help you overcome your fear of needles.
   
   

Three Things To Remember When Selecting a Sedation Dentist Near Me

1. Understand the Types of “Sedation Dentistry Near Me” Offered: Sedation dentistry is a category that varies widely. You must understand your end goal when choosing a sedation dentist. Not all dentists offer every kind of sedation. For example, some dentists offer only light or mild sedation options to help with jitters. For patients with mild anxiety, however, that might be enough. But, for a patient with a significant phobia or for a patient who wants to be more “asleep” during treatment, light or mild sedation might not be a good option.
   
   The types of sedation offered in dentistry are IV sedation and oral sedation, which is sedation in pill form. Depending upon your anxiety level, however, you should be sure to research an office based on whether or not they offer oral sedation or the entire spectrum of sedation including, but not limited to IV sedation. If you find that you are too anxious, it might be worth a longer commute to seek a more specialized doctor. 

2. Verify Credentials: This might be a bit of a no-brainer, but you might just be surprised at how many patients assume the doctor or dentist they have selected is credentialed. Often dental practices have their website designed with a template software, which could mean that the website’s sedation dentistry portion is added by default. It’s always good to confirm that you are considering a dental practice that has a qualified sedation dentist.
   
   Sedation dentistry is regulated. The state dental board governs and regulates sedation dentistry. The dental board takes the time to verify that a sedation dentist has completed a program that coordinates with and qualifies them for the type of sedation they offer (mild, moderate, or deep sedation). A quick way to check whether or not the office you are considering offers sedation is to check the doctor’s biography section located on the dental office’s website. Look for terms like “board-certified in sedation dentistry.”

3. Get A Sense of Personality: Personality can be one of the most significant factors that distinguish a good or average healthcare provider from a great healthcare provider next to their skills, of course. Communication during treatment is a massive factor in how comfortable you’ll feel and the amount of trust you develop—a great way to get a sense of personality before meeting any dentist is by word of mouth. Ask around. See if someone you know has previously been to this office. Their experience might be able to help you.
   
   Another additional factor you might want to include is a “no-judgment dentist near me.” A no-judgment dentist will make you feel right at home from the very beginning. He or she will not pass judgment regardless of how long it has been since you’ve seen a dentist. A “no judgment dentist near me” or a “dentist that caters to cowards near me” will applaud you for taking the first step in coming to their office. From there, you will be included in your treatment plan so you can become a healthier you.
   
   What happens if you can’t find a useful reference or nobody you know has been to this office? Read articles or blogs written by the perspective doctor. Get a sense of how they communicate when writing. Read online reviews from Google. If all of those things check out, call, and schedule an appointment. If the person answering the phone makes you feel comfortable, you are likely on the right track.

    

Conclusion for Sedation Dentistry with a Sedation Dentist Near Me

Tips:

Tip #1: When you receive oral sedation or IV sedation, be sure that you have a ride to and from the office. Ask a family member, friend, or neighbor before your scheduled appointment to ensure that your appointment time works well for them.

Tip #2: For oral sedation or IV sedation, fast for a minimum of 6 hours before your procedure. Nitrous oxide, however, does not require that you fast. 

Tip #3: Regardless of the type of sedation used, your sedation dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic. The reason for this is so that when you wake up and your procedure is complete, you won’t be in pain.

Tip #4: Dental sedation is complicated but has been proven extremely safe. The medications used in sedation dentistry have few side effects and can always be easily reversed should safety become a concern. 

Tip #5: Always seek a top-rated sedation dentist in your area. In addition to being top-rated, make sure they are also board-certified. This dentist should be well-known for their experience in treating dental phobia.

Final Thoughts: How Safe is Sedation Dentistry Near Me?

If you have a dental phobia, know that you are one of many. Dental phobia and dental anxiety are widespread. Some information suggests that as much as 20% of the world suffers from severe dental anxiety, and roughly 70% of the population has some form of dental anxiety. That’s a whole lot of people who don’t like the dentist! If this sounds like you and is all too familiar, do know that sedation dentistry is a safe, effective way to complete necessary dental treatment with fewer appointments and less anxiety. Start exploring your options and find a sedation dentist near me, so you can get the dental treatment you deserve!