If you’ve got a fear of the dentist, you’re not alone. As many as 1 in 7 Australians experience extreme fear of dentist visits and treatments. There are many reasons for this, such as a worry about pain, previous unpleasant experiences, or a reaction to the lack of control. Regular appointments are necessary though to help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy and spot small problems before they develop into anything more serious. For patients whose anxiety would prevent them from seeking appointments or treatments, sedation is an option.
Depending on the level of anxiety and the treatment taking place, there are various sedation options. You may be offered a tablet to take one hour before your appointment to allow it time to work. This is for mild anxiety, and you will be conscious but drowsy. You will be able to communicate with your dentist but probably won’t remember the appointment. Another option for mild anxiety that doubles as pain relief is inhalation sedation. This only takes a few minutes to work, and most patients feel dream-like but again, you will be conscious and can communicate. Part of the effect of this form of sedation is muscle relaxation. This includes the tongue, so this option is good for those with a sensitive gag reflex.
For more extreme anxiety, your dentist may offer you IV sedation. This is a stronger form of sedation that requires monitoring by an anaesthetist. Some patients fall asleep when using this sedation but even if you don’t, you won’t remember the treatment. Another option is general anaesthetic which means you’ll be completely asleep for the procedure, and it will be done in a day surgery clinic. This carries more risks but can be effective for complex treatments or for those people with anxiety that can’t be improved with other techniques.
For most of these sedation options, you may feel sleepy or dizzy for a few hours after the appointment and should not drive for up to 48 hours as it leaves your system.
Who Can Have Dental Sedation?
Each patient who is considering sedation will be assessed by their dentist. You should expect to provide your medical history and details of any medication you’re currently taking. Sedation is suitable for most people. If your anesthetist thinks you’re a good match for sedation, they’ll make sure you understand any potential complications and side effects before you consent.
Other Ways to Ease Anxiety
If you’re not sure if sedation is right for you, there are other techniques you could try. Dentists are used to dealing with anxious patients so being honest is the first step. For some people, the fear of the unknown is what triggers their stress response. In these cases, dentists are more than happy to talk through a treatment beforehand and show them the room where it will be taking place, so patients know what to expect. If they know you are nervous, a dentist can offer you an early appointment so you’re not building up the worry during the day.
Distraction is a surprisingly effective technique too as it can take your mind off spiralling thoughts. This could mean using a stress ball or utilising entertainment options that your dentist offers such as music or a TV screen on the ceiling. For some people, these techniques, and a few appointments with a friendly calm dentist, can ease their anxiety. If they’re not working for you though, sedation is a valid option to help you keep on top of your dental health. If you’re looking for a welcoming dentist who can help you work through your anxiety, you can find out more about our services here.