Sedation Dentistry and Conquering Your Fear of the Dentist

It has been estimated that 50 percent of Americans have fear or anxiety about dental work. For some people, the anxiety is so extreme that they don’t go to the dentist at all, which can ultimately lead to serious dental problems, extraordinary pain, tooth loss, and even overall health risks. What many people may not realize is that there are a number of techniques that can be utilized during treatment to give them a much more relaxed – even pleasant – dental experience. Dr. Kevin Sands offers advanced sedation dentistry options that can help you take the fear out of dental work and walk out of our office with beautiful, healthier teeth and gums.

Here’s a brief overview of the two main types of sedation dentistry here at our practice that can help you relax during treatment:

Oral Conscious Sedation

With the oral conscious sedation option, you will take a small pill about an hour before your treatment begins. When the pill starts taking effect, you should feel very drowsy and incredibly relaxed; however, you should not fall into an unconscious state. You will be able to communicate at all times, but you will be in a state of such deep relaxation that you may not have any memory of the procedure taking place once it’s finished. A member of our dental team will be monitoring you at all times to make sure everything is running smoothly. Please note that a friend or family member will need to drive you to and from the practice since you will be drowsy both before and after your treatment.

IV Sedation

If you have a severe level of dental anxiety, or if you are undergoing a complex procedure that may take longer than usual to perform, IV (intravenous) sedation may be a good option for your needs. IV sedation can help you spend the entire treatment in a deep sleep. Your vital signs will be monitored closely throughout the procedure. If you have IV sedation for your treatment, you will feel groggy and tired once you wake up, and therefore it is important that you arrange for someone to take you home once the treatment is complete.

IV sedation is the option that was given to NBA Basketball superstar Lamar Odom during his visit to Dr. Sands. Coming to us with an admitted fear of the dentist, it had been several years since Lamar had received dental treatment and there were a number of problems that needed to be addressed. With IV sedation, Lamar had a very restful appointment and his dental problems were successfully resolved! His experience was captured on the hit television show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians – you can view a clip of it here.

Once you meet with Dr. Sands for your initial consultation, he will discuss all aspects of your treatment with you and help you decide on which sedation dentistry option may be best for your needs. Don’t let fear of the dentist stop you from attaining necessary dental care and a brighter, healthier smile!

Contact Dr. Kevin Sands

For more information on sedation dentistry, or to schedule an appointment, please contact Dr. Kevin Sands today.