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Fear of the dentist and dental procedures is a common phobia. Up to 15% of all American adults avoid seeing their dentist due to fears and anxiety. However, avoiding the dentist can be problematic, resulting in the proliferation of avoidable conditions like cavities, tooth decay, and certain forms of oral cancer. To help patients cope with their fears and anxieties, many dentists turn to sedation dentistry as a solution.

Below, the team from Family First Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, explains what sedation dentistry is, why it’s used, and why you may need it.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a technique used by dentists to help patients stay calm and relaxed during visits. Your dentist can induce this state of relaxation through painkillers, anti-anxiety pills, sedatives, or nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas. In the past, dentists relied on IV therapy to administer these medications; however, oral sedation is the method preferred by most dentists today.

Why Is Sedation Dentistry Used?

sedation dentistrySedation dentistry is used to help patients cope with their fears and anxieties about visiting the dentist and undergoing dental procedures. Additionally, your dentist may offer sedation options to help you remain comfortable throughout a particularly long or difficult procedure. There are procedures that commonly require sedation such as dental fillings, periodontics, and getting braces. However, the technique can also be used for simple procedures such as teeth cleaning.

Why You May Need Sedation Dentistry

If you have a fear of visiting the dentist or you find it difficult to remain calm throughout most procedures, you may benefit from sedation dentistry. If you feel you may need some form of sedation, speak to your dentist before the procedure begins about your concerns and ask which options are available to you.

If you are in the Anchorage area and need to schedule a routine dental visit, call (907) 562-2820 to schedule an appointment at Family First Dentistry. For more information on sedation dentistry options and procedures such as their signature same-day crowns, visit the Family First Dentistry website today. You can also find them on Twitter.

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