Sedation Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry
“Do you fear the dentist? You’re not alone. Dental phobia is a common phenomenon, affecting children and adults across the country, including patients here in San Antonio. As many as 15% of the U.S. population avoids visiting their dentist’s office due to dental phobia.
It’s not uncommon for patients who fail to attend their regularly scheduled dental appointments to suffer from much higher rates of dental decay, pain, unsightly teeth, and even tooth loss. Neglected teeth and gums have also been linked to a variety of serious medical conditions, including: heart disease, respiratory infections and even dementia.
Overcoming dental phobia is not easy. Dr. Ganeshappa strives to make your experience at our office as calm and relaxing as possible. We offer an array of therapeutic techniques, including sedation dentistry.
What is Dental Phoebia?
In short, dental phobia mean “fear of the dentist.” However, there is a spectrum of severity when it comes to dental phobia. Some patients have dental anxiety with mild and manageable symptoms. On the other hand, some patients suffer from extreme cases, which can cause the patient to have a panic attack, vomit, or even pass out. Dental phobia can have an array of symptoms. Common symptoms of dental anxiety, include: sweating, nausea, shaking, dizziness and feeling extremely hot or cold. More extreme signs of phobia can include laughing and hysteria.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is the practice of using medication to help patients to relax through dental check-ups or treatments.
Types of Sedation?
There are multiple levels of sedation available. During your initial consultation, Dr. Ganeshappa will discuss all of your options and determine which type of sedation is right for you based on your level of fear and the type of work that you need carried out. In some cases, it is not possible to know what treatment is needed, and so it may be necessary to undertake a second visit under a different type of sedation.
IV Sedation for Moderate Dental Phobia
Patients who have IV (or intravenous) sedation often find that they have a slight awareness of the procedures being carried out, but can remember very little after. This type of sedation is used for minor dental procedures, like cavity fillings, veneers, or crowns.”