Dental anxiety is a common issue for many of our patients. Sadly, this fear can keep them from getting the care they need for a healthy mouth. To help, we offer sedation dentistry options to make sure you feel comfortable and relaxed during your dental visits. These sedation options are available for patients using our general dental services in Sandy Springs, GA.
With our gentle care and expert approach, you can enjoy stress-free dentistry and achieve a healthy, beautiful smile without worry. We don’t want anxiety to stand in the way of your oral health. Dr. Flax and our team will support you every step of the way. Your smile and peace of mind are our top priorities at our Atlanta dental office.
Sedation Dentistry in Sandy Springs, GA
Sedation dentistry uses safe sedatives to help patients relax during dental procedures. At Flax Dental, we offer two main types of sedation:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Nitrous oxide, often called “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative given through a mask over your nose. It helps you relax and feel calm throughout your treatment. One great thing about nitrous oxide is that its effects wear off quickly.
- Oral Conscious Sedation: This type of sedation involves taking a prescribed pill before your appointment to help you deeply relax. The medication makes you calm while still allowing you to stay awake and responsive.
How Dental Anxiety Impacts Your Oral Health
Dental anxiety can seriously affect your oral health by keeping you from getting the dental care you need. Avoiding the dentist because of fear can make dental problems worse, leading to more severe and costly procedures down the road.
Common issues with dental anxiety include:
- Higher Risk of Gum Disease and Cavities: Avoiding regular dental cleanings and check-ups can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which may cause gum disease and cavities.
- Tooth Loss: If gum disease gets worse or cavities go untreated, you could lose teeth. This might affect your ability to chew and lower your confidence.
- Worsening Oral Health Issues: Dental anxiety can make you delay treatments, causing existing problems to get worse. This might lead to needing more invasive procedures.
- Impact on Overall Health: Poor oral health can affect your whole body, leading to issues like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By addressing dental anxiety and getting the care you need, you can improve your overall health.
Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a great option for people who experience:
- Fear or Anxiety: If visiting the dentist makes you feel scared or nervous, sedation can help you relax and feel more at ease during your appointment.
- Sensitive Gag Reflex: Some people have a strong gag reflex that makes dental procedures uncomfortable. Sedation can calm this reflex, making the experience more pleasant.
- Low Pain Tollerance: If you are sensitive to pain, sedation dentistry can help make the procedure comfortable and pain-free.
- Need for Lengthy Procedures: If you need to undergo a long or complex procedure, sedation can help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, both nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation are safe when given by trained professionals. We carefully watch your vital signs during the procedure to keep you safe.
Will I be unconscious during the procedure?
With nitrous oxide, you will stay awake and able to talk to the dental team. Oral conscious sedation puts you in a deeply relaxed state, but you will still be awake and able to follow instructions.
How long will the effects of sedation last?
The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly after the dentist removes the mask, so you can go back to your daily activities. However, oral conscious sedation may leave you feeling sleepy for a few hours after the procedure, so have someone drive you home.