Research indicates that somewhere between 9% to 15% of Americans regularly avoid going to the dentist out of fear. These people would rather endure painful, infected, discolored, and damaged teeth than risk setting foot in a dental office. Or, if and when they do come in, it’s the very worst part of their week for them. Fortunately, good dentists like Dr. Dominic Roppa and Dr. Kara Marshall-Roppa of Smile Viera in Viera FL don’t take it personally. Instead they search for the most effective means of reducing their patients’ anxiety so that all patients get the care they need.
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to allow for a more relaxing, less stressful experience for those patients who might otherwise avoid dental care because of fears. Sedation dentistry, also known as “relaxation” or “anxiety-free” dentistry, is now offered by thousands of dentists, including the Drs. Roppa at Smile Viera.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right For You?
Sedation dentistry might be a good option for you if find yourself avoiding dental appointments due to anxiety. Most often, that anxiety can be attributed to:
- Prior negative experiences
- Fear of pain or gagging/choking
- Anxiety triggered by the sounds and smells of a working dental office
- Dislike of feeling uncomfortably numb
- Fear of loss of control
Sedation dentistry may also be a good fit for people who:
- Have difficulty remaining still in a dentist’s chair
- Need a large amount of dental work be completed in one sitting
- Have a low pain threshold
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is a sedative that is mixed with oxygen and breathed in through a mask that fits over your nose that calms and relaxes you. It will not put you to sleep. While feeling the effects of Nitrous Oxide you will still be coherent and able to carry on a conversation with the dentist, but will feel more calm and comfortable. The nitrous oxide’s effects will wear off soon after the mask is removed, allowing you to drive yourself home after the procedure. Nitrous Oxide is even safe enough to be administered to children.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is intended to relax you and reduce your ability to feel pain. You will be aware of your surroundings and be able to carry on a conversation, but you’ll be less responsive to what is happening, reducing anxiety. It’s possible you will feel drowsy and might even feel like taking a nap during the procedure.
The medication that is used most often for oral sedation is Halcion, a member of the same drug family as Valium. Halcion is usually taken about an hour before the procedure to allow time for it to take effect. You will, however need a friend or family member to drive you home if you and your dentist opt for this form of sedation.
Sedation Dentistry at Smile Viera
Drs. Roppa and Marshall-Roppa strive to make sure all of their patients feel comfortable. The relaxing atmosphere of our Viera FL office combined with our professional and friendly staff, have helped hundreds of patients feel more comfortable at the dentist. If you would like to know more about our sedation dentistry or any of the other services offered at Smile Viera, please schedule a consultation online or call us at (321) 614-3833 to schedule your appointment.