I’m a newlywed. I just found out my wife is terrified of the dentist. I want her to realize it can be great. What’s a good way for me to find a dentist that will be patient with someone who’s afraid?
Luke M. – Denver
Luke,
There are a lot of people who feel like your wife does. One thing you may have her try is sedation dentistry. Many anxious patients find it completely changes the way they view dentistry.
These dentists generally can be found under a search for “sedation dentist” or “cater to cowards“. They’re used to working with anxious patients and tend to be very gentle and patient with them. There are different levels of sedation as well.
The least sedative is nitrous oxide. This just relaxes her. She’s able to drive herself to and from her appointment without difficulty. The most common use of sedation for very fearful patients is oral conscious sedation. This is much stronger type of sedation, so she’ll need you to drive her there and back again. You’ll probably need to arrange for someone to stay with her for a few hours as well. She’ll be conscious the whole time, but extremely relaxed and without complete balance.
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