Dental phobia is a real condition and one that causes millions of Americans each year to avoid having regular dental check-ups. Sedation dentistry at Sam's Premier Dental in Sherman, TX can provide an easy solution for patients who are scared to go to the dentist, as well as those patients who may have physical or cognitive impairments that make dental examinations difficult to perform.

Sedation dentistry means that dental procedures are performed, while the patient is given sedation medication. With sedation medication, the patient is awake, unless they are given a general anesthetic.

There are different levels of sedation available and the type of sedation you will be given will be based on two key elements:

Dr. Sam will discuss your personal circumstances with you, in order to make a recommendation.

Minimal sedation is usually provided in the form of Nitrous Oxide, also known as laughing gas. When you inhale the gas, you will feel yourself relax. However, the effect is short-lived, so you will normally wear the mask over your nose for the duration of your procedure.

Moderate sedation if often administered orally via a tablet that is taken about an hour before your procedure. With moderate sedation, you will feel relaxed, and may not remember much of the procedure once it is complete.

Heavy sedation normally involves the use of IV-administered medication, which puts you on the edge of consciousness for the duration of your procedure. You will most likely not remember your procedure. Like with moderate sedation, you will feel completely at ease during the treatment.

Patients who suffer from dental anxiety often avoid their dentists and don't get the quality dental care they deserve. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that patients should attend a dental check-up once or twice per year. This gives your dentist the opportunity to check your dental health and gums, as well as to detect any potential problems early, while they require minimal intervention.

Failing to attend regular dental check-ups means that problems such as gingivitis and light decay can worsen, and treating them could become a lengthier and more invasive process. The fear of discomfort will only be exacerbated, when you need more advanced dental work. Advanced treatments also tend to be considerably more expensive. Catching a problem as early as possible is better for your oral health and your bank balance.

It is also important to remember that poor dental health has also been linked to a number of other serious general health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and even some cancers. Therefore, by taking care of your mouth, you are also taking care of your entire body.

Dental sedation is considered perfectly safe when performed by a qualified and experienced dental professional, such as Dr. Sam. Complications are rare, as the patient is carefully monitored throughout their procedure. However, there are some side-effects you should be aware of before your procedure. These include:

Disorientation. Many patients feel disorientated for some time after their procedure. It is for this reason that we ask patients to have a friend or family member present to take them home and stay with them for a recommended amount of time after their procedure.

Hyperactivity. Some people find they are jittery and unable to stay still until the effects of the anesthetic and sedation have completely worn off.

You should also arrange to have someone drive you to and from your appointment when undergoing sedation dentistry.

If you have been avoiding your regular dental visits, due to anxiety or fear, you don’t have to worry any longer. Dr. Sam and our team are highly experienced in providing effective, reassuring sedation dentistry for patients with a diverse range of dental anxiety symptoms. Don’t put your oral and general health and wellbeing at risk. Get in touch to find out more about how sedation dentistry can help you regain your smile. Call us today at 903-708-6400.