Did you know that the American Dental Association was founded all the way back in 1859? Since then, dentistry has advanced by leaps and bounds to become much safer, more efficient, and even quite comfortable. Thanks to advanced technology, highly trained dentists, and friendly dental teams, getting proper dental care has never been easier. However, studies estimate that up to 20% of Americans still avoid visiting their dentist out of fear or anxiety. With the help of a modern practice called sedation dentistry, there’s no need to be afraid. In fact, this means of relaxing in the dentist’s chair can benefit all sorts of people! If fear, pain, sensitivity, or disabilities make it difficult for you to get the oral care you need, your sedation dentist in Jonesboro is here to help.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Although you may not remember your appointment after using some types of sedation dentistry, you are never unconscious or asleep. You are relaxed enough to ease any emotional or physical discomfort but awake enough to respond to instruction. Three common types of sedation are:
- Nitrous oxide. This light sedative is also known as laughing gas. Moments after being inhaled, it lets patients feel light and at ease throughout their treatment.
- Oral conscious sedation. If needed, your dentist can prescribe a slightly stronger sedative to be taken before or at your appointment. You’ll quickly feel deeply relaxed and comfortable, and you may not remember your appointment afterwards.
- IV sedation. With the help of a sedative administered directly into the bloodstream, you’ll feel as though you’ve slept through the whole procedure. Your dentist will closely monitor you to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible, but not completely unconscious.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Almost anyone who has difficulty being comfortable or at ease in a dentist’s chair can benefit from sedation dentistry. This includes those who have:
- Dental anxiety or a previous traumatic dental experience.
- Sensitive teeth or gag reflexes.
- A disability or injury that makes sitting for long periods of time uncomfortable.
- An extensive amount of dental work to be done in one appointment.
Sedation dentistry has helped many people overcome whatever is holding them back from proper dental care. Talk to your sedation dentist in Jonesboro to see which option can help you get the happy, healthy smile you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Yarnell has been helping her patients feel at ease in the dental chair for years at her practice in Jonesboro, AR. As a Master in the College of Sedation Dentistry, she has completed advanced training in sedation techniques and specializes in nitrous oxide, oral conscious, and IV sedation. She is passionate about helping you feel as comfortable as possible so you can get the dental care you deserve. To discover which method could help you the most, she can be contacted at her website or at (870) 932-8488.