Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Few people are excited about going to the dentist, but most can tolerate the procedures. However, there are those who experience extreme anxiety or fear about dental appointments or procedures. If you have been putting off going to the dentist, rest assured that there is a way to get pain and stress-free dental treatment. 

 

Sedation dentistry involves the use of different drugs that are administered to keep patients calm and relaxed during dental procedures. Here are some reasons you may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry.

 

You Get Extremely Anxious


 

If you feel extremely anxious about going to the dentist, you are a good candidate for sedation dentistry. Anxiety about dental treatment is usually due to fear of the perceived pain. Oral sedation can be helpful for you as you can remain conscious without being aware of the pain around you. Talk to the dentist about sedation options depending on the procedure. With the availability of sedation dentistry, you do not have to – and should not – ignore your dental health. 

 

You Have a Low Pain Tolerance



There are a few dental procedures that can be very painful even with the best technology. There are also people with low pain tolerance who experience pain more easily than others. People who have sensitive teeth and gums can find getting dental care very uncomfortable. Avoiding pain is a good reason to get sedation dentistry. If dental treatment is always painful for you, talk to the dentist about it. The dentist can recommend the best sedation option for you.

 

The Sounds and Smells Bother You



Many people are uncomfortable with dental procedures because of the sounds and smells. Do you find the smell of latex gloves awful or the sound of the drill disturbing? If so, you are a candidate for sedation dentistry. 



Some people have a strong gag reflex that makes it difficult to receive dental treatment effectively. If you find the sensory experiences in the dental office to be disturbing or unpleasant, you can benefit from sedation dentistry. 


 

A Lengthy or Complex Dental Procedure



If you require a lengthy or complicated dental procedure, you are a good candidate for sedation dentistry. Most people can tolerate some pain or discomfort for a few minutes, but prolonged pain is disturbing for anyone. 



The pain associated with intensive or complex dental procedures makes sedation dentistry extremely necessary. If the procedure that you need will keep you in the dentist’s office for a significant time, you will require sedation. 


 

You Have Physical Complications



Some people have physical complications that make it difficult to get effective dental treatment. Some experience extreme levels of pain during procedures. Some people find it difficult to get numb. 

 

Others have physical limitations such as jaw pain, neck pain, or back pain. These people may find it difficult to lie back or keep their mouths open during the procedures. Sedation dentistry is necessary for such patients.  

 

Different patients have different reasons for needing dental sedation. Some people have had traumatic dental experiences that have kept them away from the dentist. These patients are good candidates for sedation dentistry. It is important to realize that dental problems do not go away by themselves. Failing to get dental treatment only makes the condition worse and can prolong pain in the future. 



 

For more information on sedation dentistry or to find out if you are a candidate, contact Elite Dentistry & Implant Center at our office in Chelsea, Alabama. You can call us at 205-224-0040 today to schedule an appointment.