Don't Let Dental Anxiety Stop You From Getting the Care You Need - Oral Sedation Can Help! 

If you’re nervous about seeing the dentist, you’re not alone. Data show millions of Americans struggle with dental anxiety, a problem that affects more than 60% of the global population. Also called dentophobia, fear of the dentist is a serious problem that can cause people to delay seeking care, resulting in more serious oral health problems and an increased risk of overall health problems, too.

Richard Blackburn, DMD, MA, and the team at Volterra Dental know that dentophobia is a serious problem for many adults and children, and that’s why they take extra steps to ensure their patients stay comfortable. In addition to creating a relaxed and friendly environment, Dr. Blackburn offers sedation dentistry to calm patients’ fears and help them get the care they need without discomfort or worry.

The perils of dental anxiety

Dental anxiety can happen for lots of reasons. For many patients, anxiety is based on previous unpleasant experiences when visiting the dentist, often experiences that go back to their childhood.

For others, it’s the sounds associated with dental care or the odors of antiseptics used to prevent contamination. Other people simply don’t like having “work” done right before their eyes, or they may have a strong gag reflex that makes care uncomfortable. 

Whatever the reason, dental anxiety is an authentic, palpable problem that can lead to more severe and complex health issues in the future. Studies show that delaying dental care can increase the risk of oral infections, tooth loss, and even systemic problems like heart disease. Of course, putting off simple treatments, like regular cleanings and checkups, can also result in more complex and costly care in the future.

How sedation dentistry works

Sedation dentistry uses prescription medicine to help you relax and even doze during treatment. Dr. Blackburn is skilled in different types of oral sedation, enabling him to tailor your treatment to your needs.

Laughing gas

Also known as nitrous oxide, laughing gas derives its name from the feelings of euphoria it can produce. Gas is delivered through a mask that fits over your nose. As you breathe deeply, nitrous oxide produces a deep feeling of relaxation while relieving stress and nervousness. Once your treatment is over, the effects of the gas wear off rapidly, so you can drive yourself home after your appointment.

Oral sedation

As the name implies, oral sedation uses pills to help you relax. These medicines are designed to help you feel calm and tired, and many people drift off into sleep during their care. Sedation is light enough to make it easy for Dr. Blackburn to rouse when needed (for instance, to rinse and spit), but it does take several hours to wear off after your visit, so you’ll need someone to drive you home.

IV sedation

IV sedation is delivered intravenously through a small needle placed in your arm. Our team is specially trained and licensed to administer IV sedation to our patients right in our office. IV sedation helps you feel deeply relaxed and tired throughout your care, and like oral sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.

Before recommending any type of sedation, Dr. Blackburn reviews your medical history to ensure your treatment is optimized for your health needs. And, of course, you’re continuously monitored during treatment for added peace of mind.

Manage your dental anxiety

Don’t let fear or nervousness prevent you from getting the care you need to maintain your oral health and avoid more serious health problems in the future. To learn more about sedation dentistry and how it can help you stay relaxed during your visits, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Blackburn and the team at Volterra Dental in Los Alamitos, California, today.