Quite a few people avoid the dentist office and put off care they need because they’re afraid of pain and they’re afraid of being put under. That’s an understandable concern, because any anesthetic agent, particularly one that isn’t topical, carries certain risks. A growing number of dentists are creating their own websites for their dental practices and they’re establishing a patient education section so they can describe the types of anesthesia that a Sedation Dentist Redding may use, describe the precautions they take, and in general allay the public’s fears.
In cases where a patient has much anxiety over an upcoming procedure, a local anesthetic may not be the best option. One type of anesthetic that a Sedation Dentist in Redding may use as an option is called conscious sedation. The patient remains awake during the procedure but will not remember much afterward. As far as side effects, you may have hiccups for a few minutes after the procedure is done. You’ll need to have someone else give you a ride home afterward, and you may have a dry mouth until the anesthesia fully wears off.
Another anesthesia option for nervous patients is nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas. The patient breathes in the anesthetic through a mast that is placed over the mouth and nose. It takes only a few minutes, and then the procedure can begin. The patient remains awake, but feels relaxed.
A Sedation Dentist Redding will not use conscious sedation, or any other kind of anesthetic, without a thorough assessment of your current health and your medical history. The doctor and staff will constantly monitor your vital signs during the procedure. There is no need to live in pain and go without dental care out of fear. If a patient has any anxiety or fear of the procedure beforehand, he shouldn’t be afraid to tell the dentist about those concerns. As many as 30 percent of Americans have a fear of going to the dentist. Education is the key to overcoming the fear of the unknown. Ask the hygienist and the dentist to explain the procedure and what you can expect.
