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3 Reasons To Choose Sedation Dentistry

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To say that a trip to the dentist is beneficial would be a massive understatement. Regular visits to your dentist of choice is the easiest and most effective way to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and even more serious oral health issues. That said, many people have a strong fear of going to the dentist and put off their visit as long as possible. Fortunately, sedation dentistry offers an excellent compromise, making it easier than ever to get an annual checkup or undergo a procedure. In short, sedation dentistry uses nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) or sedative medication to induce a sleepy but still conscious state that allows patients to relax. If you are interested in the benefits of sedation dentistry, take a look below for some of the best ones.

Physical Triggers

Many of the reasons people avoid going to the dentist have to do with unpleasant physical triggers rather than psychological fears. One of the most common is tooth sensitivity, which can be caused by receding gums, grinding of the teeth, or even using mouthwash too frequently. Another good example of a physical trigger is a sensitive gag reflex, which can prevent a dentist from properly inspecting teeth in the back of your mouth. One of the biggest benefits of sedation dentistry is the elimination of the physical triggers.

Phobias

Unfortunately, when it comes to reasons people avoid the dentist, there are a number of things even more serious than physical triggers. A phobia of needles is just one example, but is also another problem that sedation dentistry can help solve. By allowing you to relax via nitrous oxide or sedative medication, you may be only vaguely aware of a dentist's use of needles. However, it is important to note that you can still communicate any urgent issues to your dentist even when you're sedated, so there's no need to worry.

Other Conditions

There are a number of other conditions that may cause you to avoid going to the dentist. These may include feelings of claustrophobia while at a dentist's office, special behavioral needs, or an inability to control sudden movements. If any of these apply to you, don't hesitate to call a local dentist who focuses on sedation dentistry and have a conversation about what type of sedation to undergo. This will depend on a variety of factors including your medical history and the procedure you plan to undergo.


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