Alleviate Fear of the Dentist's Chair With Sedation Dentistry

    OAKTON, VA, November 01, 2008 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Try this test: Ask a group of your friends or extended family members the last time they visited the dentist. Chances are that at least one of those people will confess a real fear of dentists...quite possibly a fear that has kept that person from seeking any type of dental care for many years. Regardless of how diligent that person is with daily brushing and flossing, evading the dentist's chair for long periods of time is certain to lead to serious dental problems in the long run.

In an effort to encourage fearful patients to visit the dentist, more and more dentists are offering sedation dentistry to help patients have a tranquil experience during dental work and even prior to arrival.

There are many situations besides general nervousness or phobia in which sedation dentistry can help the patient relax and help the dentist complete both simple and complex procedures.

• Children and patients with special needs may be unable to remain still long enough for procedures to be completed.
• Dentist offices have recognizable sights, odors and noises that may conjure up unpleasant memories from the past for certain patients.
• Patients may have teeth that are very sensitive to pain, heat or cold, which makes procedures highly uncomfortable.
• Patients may have a strong gag reflex that makes it difficult for a dentist or dental hygienist to complete dental work and cleanings properly.
• When a great deal of complicated dental work is required in one visit, the patient may wish to be sedated for the duration of the procedures.

Oral sedation dentistry options

There are several different sedation drug options that are commonly used in dentistry today. When administered properly, these drugs safely and effectively calm the central nervous system to allow the patient to become drowsy or in some cases actually fall asleep. The medication is usually taken prior to the patient's appointment time so the drug has time to work its magic. Sedation dentists commonly administer one of the following medications:

• Ativan (Lorazepam)
• Valium (Diazepam)
• Triazolam
• Sonata (Zaleoplon)
• Vistaril (Hydroxyzine)

Due to the lasting effects of the medication, patients are required to have someone drive them home after the procedures.

Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide (or laughing gas) is another option commonly used to alleviate anxiety in patients immediately before procedures. While this gas may not actually make patients laugh, it will provide a temporary feeling of ultimate relaxation without worry. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off shortly after the mask is removed.

With sedation dentistry, there is no excuse not to visit the dentist regularly. Practice good oral hygiene and make your dental health a priority. Your teeth will thank you.

Dr. Michael K. Chung, DDS offers sedation dentistry to his northern Virginia patients at Softouch Dental Care in Oakton, Virginia.

Source: Softouch Dental Care
Website: http://www.softouchdentalcare.com

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