Dental anxiety is a serious issue that affects about 36% of the population. In severe cases, it can prevent people from getting the dental care they need. Fortunately, there’s a common tool used to help relieve these fears – sedation dentistry in Gorham! Not only does it make patients feel relaxed, but it’ll allow for a smooth sailing dental experience. Of course, it’s completely normal to have a few concerns before committing to anything. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive!
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the administration of sedative drugs to relieve mild to severe dental anxiety. It’s commonly used to keep patients comfortable during extensive treatments, such as tooth extractions, dental implants, bone grafts, and corrective jaw surgery. Rest assured – all sedation methods are considered safe and have been used by oral surgeons for years.
Who Should Get Sedation Dentistry?
During your consultation, your dentist will review your health history and inquire about your current medications to determine which sedation method is right for you. While it’s not recommended for every patient, you may want to consider it if you have:
- Severe dental anxiety or phobia
- Sensitive teeth and gums
- A strong gag reflex
- Difficulty sitting still for an extended time
- A fear of needles
- Trouble getting numb from anesthesia
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Absolutely! It’s completely safe as long as it’s performed by a trained and licensed medical professional. Your dentist’s primary concern is your safety, which is why they’ll closely monitor your vitals while you’re under sedation to ensure you’re okay.
How Long Will I Be Sedated?
The amount of time you’ll be under dental sedation ranges between one and six hours. Of course, it depends entirely on the type of procedure you’re having done. Before starting treatment, your dentist will explain what to expect so that you know what’s going on.
Are There Side Effects to Sedation Dentistry?
There are various side effects you may experience depending on the type of dental sedation you receive. Some patients will feel completely fine and can drive themselves home, while others will feel groggy and need to have a trusted individual drive them home. It’s also common to experience temporary nausea, vomiting, headaches, and fatigue. Your dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions to help you make a speedy recovery.
Are you nervous about your upcoming dental procedure? Contact your dentist and ask about sedation dentistry in Gorham. With their help, you can have a comfortable and stress-free experience!
About the Practice
At Morgan-Hill Dental Care, we value patient comfort and safety. Our highly skilled and compassionate team will always treat you like a member of our very own family. If you have any questions about our sedation dentistry services, we’re more than happy to address them. You can schedule a consultation via our website or call (207) 839-2655.