It is quite common to feel a little nervous in the dentist’s chair. Most patients feel somewhat uneasy during their visit. For some patients however, an appointment is not only unpleasant, but very highly anxiety-inducing. If visiting the dentist causes significant anxiety, or you have been putting off dental work because of anxiety, sedation dentistry is an option for you. River Harmony Dental is pleased to offer sedation dentistry options, including Nitrous Oxide, Oral Sedation, Intravenous Sedation, and weighted blankets to help ease your anxiety so you can receive the dental care you need.
Don’t let fear of the dentist keep you from dental care. Contact us today to discuss sedation options that can help make your visit more comfortable.
All services are provided by Dr. Traora Grant, a general dentist.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a way of helping you stay calm and relaxed during your dental procedure. Through the use of sedatives and comfort measures, taking care of your oral health can be more manageable. For many patients with significant anxiety, sedation dentistry can help make the difference between getting dental care and putting it off.
Types of Sedation Dentistry Offered at River Harmony Dental
Nitrous Oxide
- Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, provides light sedation for moderately anxious patients, or anyone who might benefit from feeling more relaxed during their dental visit. Administered through a mask worn over the nose, patients breathe in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, which helps them relax and remain calm and comfortable during dental treatment.
Oral Sedation
- Oral sedation provides light to moderate sedation to anxious patients. Administered by taking one or two prescribed pills of a sedation medication before your procedure, it is strong enough to bring about a feeling of sleepiness, and therefore a more relaxed state, ultimately helping to ease stress or anxiety connected to undergoing dental work. An initial dose is usually taken about one hour before your procedure. Sometimes there may be additional dosing taken on the night before your procedure to help with any anxiety-related insomnia. You and your dentist will decide on the appropriate amount of medication for you, based on things like your dental procedure, body mass, length of appointment, and your comfort level. Patients remain conscious enough throughout, and they can follow the dentist’s instructions.
Weighted Blankets
- Weighted blankets use deep pressure touch stimulation, which is thought to stimulate the production of a mood-boosting hormone (serotonin), which is associated with lower levels of the stress hormone (cortisol), and may help decrease heart rate and blood pressure. A weighted blanket may help reduce stress and anxiety, so you feel more comfortable during your dental procedure. For those who feel safer and more relaxed when a heavy x-ray bib is draped on them, a weighted blanket might be enough to help ease apprehension and stress while at the dentist, so you can receive the dental care you need.
Get Your Sedation Dentistry in Cochrane, AB Today
If dental anxiety has been keeping you from getting the care you need, sedation dentistry in Cochrane, AB can help. Reach out to our expert dentist in Cochrane at River Harmony Dental to learn more about our sedation options and schedule your dental visit.
