Sedation dentistry involves being given a sedative injection before dental treatment to reduce anxiety and fear about having the dental treatment. People have dental phobia that sometimes stems from childhood and can they fear not just needles and drills but the actual dentist too! Sedation is a means of addressing the stress symptom.
Who is a candidate for sedation?
People from all walks of life can request to have sedation dentistry if it is in their best interest to do so. Talk with your dentist to determine if you are a suitable candidate.
Having sedation can help in the following cases:
- If you want to reduce your awareness of the dental treatment experience.
- Where you have fears about specific dental procedures, like fillings.
- If you already suffer mental illness or high levels of anxiety.
- For unpleasant dental procedures, like having a tooth removed.
- When other relaxation techniques don’t work, such as meditation or calm music.
- To relax the throat to combat a sensitive gag reflex
Dental sedation might not be for everyone
Some people take medications for illness and sedation could conflict with their prescribed drugs. A dentist may therefore recommend against dental sedation. In cases where people are refusing dental treatment and even sedation because their fears are so great, it is better to address the cause of the fear first.
Sedation treats the symptoms of dental phobia, which is anxiety stemming from the fears. Having therapy to overcome your fears will help relieve dental phobia symptoms. You can speak with your GP or dentist about what treatments are available.
