Many people have dental phobia, which means they avoid going to the dentist, and there could be many reasons for their phobia. You may believe that the anxiety and worry of a dental appointment are not worth it. Did you realise, however, that modern dentistry now includes sleep dentistry?
Yes, sleep dentistry can help you overcome your dental phobia by helping you through your appointment.
Let’s learn more about sleep dentistry and what occurs when you’re put to sleep by a dentist.
What Is Meant Of Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep dentistry is now a common practice in dentistry. It is a method of sedating patients to help them relax consciously throughout a dental procedure. To ensure that you are comfortable while visiting the dentist, the dentist will utilise sedative effects or a general anesthetic. If you’re nervous or anxious in the lead up to your appointment, sleep dentistry is designed to reduce those feelings. After treatment, you’ll be unaware of what has happened throughout the treatment. This is a benefit to you and the dentist because the dentist can get to work to restore strong teeth and gums for an aesthetically pleasing healthy smile.
How Would I Benefit From Sleep Dentistry?
Many people are unfamiliar with sleep dentistry, and as a result, naturally, there will be misunderstandings and fears about it.
For example, a misconception of sleep dentistry treatment is that it will render you unconscious. This isn’t true. Patients will remain awake because sleep dentistry helps them feel consciously calm. This will aid the dentist in delivering quality treatment and getting to work on your teeth.
- Reduces Feelings Of Anxiety – While you may be anxious when approaching the dentist for your appointment, you can be assured that after sleep dentistry is performed, your apprehensive fears will vanish, allowing you to relax during and after treatment.
- No Pain – One of the main reasons why people avoid going to the dentist is the fear of being in pain once the dentist starts working on their teeth, such as when they use needles. Throughout the therapy, you will be pain-free because you won’t feel anything during treatment.
- You Remain Consciously Awake – It is important to note that you will remain awake during treatment and not unconscious, one of the misconceptions of the treatment.
- A Strong Smile – If you don’t visit the dentist due to anxiety, then you’re not getting the adequate dental care that your smile deserves. With sleep dentistry, you’ll get the best dental care from your dentist, reaping the benefits of a strong smile and clean teeth you never dreamed you’d have.
What Are The Levels Of Sedation?
Typically, the dentist will use one of three sedation levels for your procedure. This will ultimately depend on your circumstances, including your level of anxiety and the treatment being performed.
Here are the levels of sedation dentistry:
- Minimal Sedation – You remain awake, but the medication will help you feel relaxed. You will retain the ability to respond verbally.
- Moderate Sedation – The level of sedation is heavier, meaning you’ll feel awake but groggy at the same time. This form of treatment means you may not remember the procedure once it’s done.
- Deep Sedation – You begin to feel unconsciousness, meaning the dentist will get to work while you’re nearly in a “sleep state”.
- Anesthesia – The dentist may put you to sleep with an anesthetic, and you’ll feel awake once the procedure is done.
Am I Suitable For Sleep Dentistry?
Patients who’ve problems or anxieties when it comes to getting dental work done are in line for sleep dentistry. Sleep dentistry is important for those who have:
- A low pain and sensitivity threshold
- Not feeling comfortable visiting the dentist or sitting in the dental chair
- A phobia of dental work
- General anxiety about dental procedures
- Cognitive impairments that may prevent the dentist from completing dental work
Sleep dentistry could be your saviour if you’re in fear of the dentist but you want to visit the dentist for a check-up. Consult your dentist to help you prepare for your appointment today.
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