I’m anxious when it comes to dental appointments. A friend recently told me she only does sedation dentistry now and it has changed her life. Is that like surgery? Will I be out?
Dana K. – Virginia
Dana,
While there are some sedation dentists who use I.V. sedation, like what you’d get with a surgical procedure, most do what is called oral conscious sedation. You’ll take a pill and will be completely relaxed. In fact, many patients sleep right through the procedure. However, you are capable of staying awake and communicating with your dentist. It’s still pain-free. It’s just up to you whether or not you stay awake.
You will need a friend to drive you to and from your appointment. You’ll be a bit tipsy and will need a someone to keep an eye on you.
Your friend is right, though. Patients with dental anxiety have found this to be a game changer. They no longer fear going to the dentist. In fact, it’s a little like a mini-vacation where they get to spend the day relaxed and waited on. Not bad, huh?
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