Nervous About Going to the Dentist? What to Know About Sedation Dentistry

If you’re nervous about going to the dentist, you’re not alone. A lot of people find going to the dentist stressful. In fact, for some people, their anxiety about going to the dentist is great enough that they may skip appointments. For these patients, there is sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry in St. Paul MN is an excellent option for those who have a hard time when they’re in the dental chair. Sedation is a medication that helps a patient relax, and some sedation can even put the patient to sleep. Here’s what you should know about sedation dentistry.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the use of medication to relieve patients of anxiety during dental procedures like cleaning and examination. Sedation dentistry can put patients to sleep, although most sedation dentistry does not. During most sedation dentistry, patients are awake but have had their anxiety and feelings of discomfort relieved by the medicine.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

While there is always some small risk with sedation dentistry, it’s considered safe as long as your dentist is properly trained to administer the medication. Some people are at higher risk for complications, but your dentist should ask you for medical history before administering sedation dentistry, to determine your risk level.

Am I a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

You’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry if you avoid going to the dentist because you’re afraid. Some other people who are good candidates include people who are unable to sit still in the dentist chair, people who have very sensitive teeth, people who had a very sensitive gag reflex and people who have a low threshold for pain.

Think you’re a good candidate for sedation dentistry? Call your dentist in St. Paul MN to make an appointment today.