I have pretty severe dental anxiety. I’ve always gone to the dentist despite this, but I am an absolute wreck for at least a week before the appointment and can’t even eat. Each time, I have lost five pounds. I read about sedation dentistry for people like me but it sounds like it is only for people who need a lot of work done on their teeth. I don’t have any problems or cavities. I just am a total baby. Is there any way that they might let me use dental sedation just for my cleaning and checkups? It would make my life so much easier.
Melanie
Dear Melanie,
I am glad you wrote. First, let me tell you how proud I am of you for being such a trooper and getting your dental work done despite the anxiety you have to deal with. You obviously take your oral health very seriously. Now, onto your question. Yes, you absolutely can have dental sedation for just a cleaning. The only decision you will need to make is which type/level of sedation you think is best for you.
Levels of Dental Sedation
The lightest level is nitrous oxide. This uses a nosepiece where you will breath in the gas and within moments feel completely relaxed. When it first came out, nitrous oxide was dubbed laughing gas because it gave patients a relaxed, floaty feeling. The additional benefit to this one, other than the relaxation is that when your procedure is completed, you can get on with your day as normal. The dentist simply switches your gas back to oxygen and you are good to go.
If you feel you need a stronger level of sedation, there is oral conscious sedation. This is so strong that it has been dubbed sleep dentistry because most people sleep through their appointments. You will be absolutely, completely relaxed. The only downside is that you will need to have someone to drive you to and from your appointment as well as stay with you for several hours after your appointment until you are lucid and steady on your feet again.
I hope this helps.
This blog is brought to you by Libertyville Dentist Dr. David Potts.