Say Goodbye to Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety is a common problem shared by children and adults alike. The mere thought of seeing a dentist causes fear, stress, and anxiety, making people avoid dental visits. Dr. Allison Brown and the team at High Forest Dental understand this and have worked hard to develop a dental experience that is as comfortable and stress-free as can be for patients in the Littleton, Colorado area. In addition to the calm and welcoming demeanor of our office, we have pillows, blankets, and noise canceling headphones to help make your visit as comfortable as possible. We can also employ nitrous dental sedation to relax our patients during their dental visits.
The Keys to Dental Comfort
Several tools can be used to provide an environment that is anxiety-free for dental treatments:
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is mixed with oxygen. The gas is inhaled through a mask to help you relax during your treatment. The effects of the gas wear off quickly, so you can drive yourself home after your procedure.
Valium is a medication that can be administered about a half hour to 45 minutes prior to dental treatment. This is commonly used when extensive dental work needs to be performed. Valium has an extended half-life compared to other oral sedation drugs and induces a sense of calm and relaxation in the patient. This allows your dentist to perform the needed work without the stress and anxiety that can impact patients.
Other relaxation tools which your dentist can utilize include the use of a blanket and pillow. While this may sound silly, it’s incredible how these simple items can provide comfort for dental patients. Additionally, noise-canceling headphones can be used so that, while dental work is being done, you can not only be physically comfortable but also be able to listen to music that cancels out the noise of any loud dental tools currently in use.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sedation Dentistry
How different is sedation from anesthesia?
Both sedation and anesthesia help patients stay comfortable during treatment, but they work in different ways. Sedation helps you relax and feel calm while remaining conscious. Anesthesia completely blocks pain in a specific area of the mouth. We use local anesthesia for most dental procedures to numb the treatment area, while sedation is like an add-on to ensure maximum comfort.
Does nitrous oxide or laughing gas make me laugh?
Not really. Nitrous gas doesn’t make you laugh uncontrollably. It induces feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and giddiness, which may make you smile more easily. The objective of laughing gas is to make you feel relaxed, not to make you laugh.
Is sedation dentistry only for anxious patients?
Not at all. Sedation dentistry is welcome news for dental-phobic patients, but it does more than that. You may benefit from sedation if you:
- Have a strong gag reflex.
- Are undergoing complex or lengthy procedures.
- Have extremely sensitive teeth.
- Have an inability to numb with local anesthesia.
- Cannot stay still in the dental chair.
Will I be asleep during sedation?
Usually, no. Sedation is not like general anesthesia. Most dental sedation methods keep you awake but deeply relaxed. You may feel drowsy and less aware of what’s happening around you. You may communicate with the dentist if needed, but you won’t feel overwhelmed or stressed. You may also remember less about the procedure.
Will I feel pain during sedation?
You should not feel pain. Sedation helps you stay calm and relaxed during the procedure. Local anesthesia is typically used to keep the treatment area completely numb. Together, these methods ensure a comfortable experience from start to finish.
What does sedation feel like?
Many patients describe sedation as a warm, calm, floating sensation. Your body feels relaxed, and your mind becomes less focused on the procedure. Time also seems to pass quickly. Before you know it, the appointment is over.
How long will sedation last?
The duration depends on the type of sedation used. Nitrous oxide wears off shortly after the procedure, while oral sedation may leave you feeling drowsy for a few hours. If oral sedation is used, you may need someone to drive you home.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation has been around for decades and is considered very safe when performed by trained professionals. The dentist carefully reviews your medical history before treatment. During the procedure, we also monitor vital signs to maximize your safety and comfort.
How much does sedation cost in Littleton, CO?
The cost depends on the type of sedation and the length of your procedure. Mild sedation options typically cost less than deeper forms of sedation. Your dentist will discuss pricing during your consultation to ensure no surprises down the line.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
It depends. Your plan may cover sedation when it is medically necessary, especially for complex procedures. Other times, sedation may be considered elective and therefore won’t be covered. Since coverage varies, it’s best to verify your benefits before treatment begins.
Where can I find sedation dentistry in Littleton, CO?
Don’t let dental fear take control of your oral health. Regain your confidence in the dental chair with sedation dentistry at High Forest Dental. Dr. Allison Brown offers several sedation options tailored to your needs. Call (303) 951-3717 and discover the best option for your comfort and confidence.Â
Stress-Free Dental Visits
These techniques make it easier for patients with dental phobia to receive regular dental care to improve their oral health. Relaxation techniques:
- Relieve stress and tension in the dental chair so patients can have relaxing dental visits.
- Make it easier for dentists to perform multiple or complex treatments.
- Minimize the gag reflex patients often feel during procedures.
- Enable your Littleton, Colorado dentist to work more effectively and finish quicker.
If you struggle with dental anxiety, talk to us about it! We would love to discuss how we can make your visit as comfortable as possible, and help you work toward reducing your anxiety in the future.
