Sedation dentistry often brings to mind major procedures like a root canal, dental implant or tooth extraction. While extensive dental work can require sedation, Dakota Dental also offers both adult and pediatric sedation dentistry services for a variety of other reasons to put patients’ minds at ease.
Whether it’s because of a previous unpleasant experience or they just haven’t been to a dental clinic in a long time, many patients have anxiety about going to the dentist. It’s estimated that between 9% to 15% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety and fear – which is about 30 to 40 million people. And according to a survey by the British Dental Health Foundation, 36% of those who didn’t see a dentist regularly said that fear was their main reason for not going.
Other reasons patients might consider sedation dentistry may be:
- If they are afraid of needles or shots
- If patients previously had negative dental experience
- If they gag easily while dental work is being done
There are several different levels of sedation available to patients: minimal, moderate, deep and general anesthesia. Minimal sedation simply relaxes the patient, while they remain alert and awake. Moderate or “conscious sedation” may make a patient slur their words when they speak, and they may not remember much of the procedure. With deep sedation, patients may be asleep but can still be awakened. And patients under general anesthesia are completely unconscious.
The dentists at Dakota Dental’s Apple Valley dental clinic are committed to making their dental experience a positive one. They can help their patients determine if dental sedation is right for them, and what type of sedation would best meet their needs.
In addition to sedation for adults, Dakota Dental also offers pediatric sedation for children. For children who are nervous about their dental visit, gag easily, or are unable to sit still during a dental procedure, pediatric sedation may be a good option.
To find out more about sedation dentistry or to schedule your next appointment, contact Dakota Dental for more information.