I Have Dental Anxiety: Is Sedation Dentistry My Answer?

At Periodontist of Weston, we spend our days performing state-of-the-art dental health services for residents from Weston, Miramar, Cooper City, and Pembroke Pines, Florida. We’re completely comfortable working with patients with all kinds of dental health needs, from simple cleanings to complex cases. But we also understand that not everyone is equally at ease about dental services. 

Some people experience a mild case of nervous energy as their appointment approaches. For others, dental anxiety can be almost debilitating and can prevent you from scheduling the preventive and restorative care you need to thrive. 

If you or a loved one finds dental care stressful and overwhelming, we offer sedation dentistry services that can help you get the services you need to achieve and maintain a healthy, happy smile. 

Dental anxiety isn’t a sign of weakness

Let’s begin by taking a look at what dental anxiety is, and what it isn’t. People who feel overly worried or fearful when faced with the thought of having dental services are not weak. Dental anxiety is very common, and those who experience this condition are often able to handle far more stressful (non-dental) life experiences with ease. 

Several things can cause dental anxiety. For some, a previous negative experience in the dental chair is enough to create high anxiety at the thought of subsequent visits. Other people experience dental anxiety as part of more overarching anxiety struggles. 

Kids can develop dental anxiety if they’re exposed to scary movies or books that depict dental procedures in a negative manner (which are more common than you might think). It should also be noted that both kids and adults can feel fearful of things they don’t have a lot of information about, and when they don’t have control over the setting. 

No matter what causes your dental anxiety, we’re dedicated to helping find a path that allows you to get the care you need without undue stress and fear. 

We offer numerous sedation dentistry options

Everyone has a distinct set of needs when it comes to managing dental anxiety. For kids, the process often begins at home, by reading age-appropriate children’s books that explain what to expect when you come to see the dentist. 

Many people find relief through incorporating nitrous oxide into their dental treatments. This odorless gas is administered via a small nose mask or cannula and helps you feel relaxed during your visit. You’ll be alert enough to respond to your dental care team, but you won’t be anxious or fearful. The effects wear off within a very short time after you stop breathing in the gas. 

We can also prescribe an oral medication for you to take in advance of your visit. These medications help you feel relaxed, but you’ll need to have a friend or loved one drive you to and from your visit, as oral sedation makes you drowsy and unable to drive. 

General sedation is an option for people with extreme dental anxiety or for those who need lengthy or complex treatment. An IV is placed in a vein on your hand or arm and connected to a bag of saline solution. The sedation medication we administer goes directly into your bloodstream. 

You’ll likely be fully asleep during your treatment, and you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward. 

Have additional questions about your options?

If you’re concerned about dental anxiety, we encourage you to schedule a visit to explore the available options and find a path that’s right for you. Our entire team understands that dental anxiety is a real and valid experience for many people, and we are here to help without judgment. 

Just give us a call to set up a visit, or try our online booking tool. The team at Periodontist of Weston congratulates you on taking the first step toward getting the dental services you need, and we look forward to exploring solutions with you in person.