If you struggle with dental anxiety, you probably avoid visiting the dentist. When you avoid routine dental exams it can impact your health and lead to complex dental concerns. Many patients feel fear or anxiety around dentist office visits, but few seek help with this common issue. Sedation dentistry in our Rogers, AR, office is the answer.
Dental sedation ensures painless and comfortable dental treatment. With this dental tool, we can help you feel relaxed in the dental chair.
Why is Sedation Dentistry Essential For Some Patients?
Sedation can help patients who have anxiety about their next general dental procedure. Dr. Heather Adams understands this fear. She has built her dental practice around the basic principles of compassion and kindness. Dr. Adams provides patient-first dentistry in a welcoming and no-pressure environment.
At our Rogers AR dental office, every patient receives personalized attention and a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Adams. Dr. Adams takes the time to listen to her patients. She will work with you to create a customized treatment plan.
We know that patients may avoid the dentist because of negative past experiences. Some patients may also fear loud noises, dental tools, or pain. However, if you avoid the dentist, dental problems can worsen over time. If you do not get treatment for a dental problem, you may need more expensive and complex care. Without regular visits, you are at a bigger risk of a gum or tooth infection.
We welcome you to contact our office so we can help you. If you have dental anxiety, you can benefit from sedation dentistry. Our treatment options can help you overcome your dental anxiety to enjoy good oral health and a big, bright, beautiful smile.
What is a Dental Phobia?
If you fear visiting the dentist’s office, you are not alone. Between 9% and 20% of Americans avoid the dentist because of dental anxiety or fear.
Dental phobia is a more serious condition. It leaves people feeling panic-stricken and terrified. People with dental fear know it’s irrational but can’t do much about it.
If you have dental fear, you will do everything possible to avoid going to the dentist. You may go to the dentist only when forced to do so by extreme pain. Anxiety or fear may require psychiatric consultation in some cases.
We offer sedation dentistry to help patients feel relaxed. That way, we can also perform several dental treatments during a single visit.
Our office will also ensure you feel comfortable when you visit our office. We can provide an office tour before your scheduled appointment. During this tour, you can meet our office staff and dentists. An office tour is a great way to familiarize yourself with our office.
We also recommend bringing earphones and music to your appointment to help distract you during treatment. If loud noises are a concern, we welcome you to bring noise-cancelling headphones. Any accommodations you need to visit our office will help you get dental care.
If you have been avoiding the dentist for some time, schedule an appointment with Dr. Adams. She will help restore your dental health without judgment.
Sedation Dentistry in Rogers, AR
We aim to improve the health and appearance of your smile. If you have dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help us provide the right care for your needs.
Dr. Adams takes your comfort and safety seriously. Before she chooses a sedation method, she will complete a thorough exam. She will also consider your budget, necessary treatments, and personal preference.
Dr. Adams provides two types of sedation in her office:
Nitrous Oxide: We combine nitrous oxide and oxygen for you to breathe through a mask. It takes effect immediately and will wear off quickly when we remove the mask. Under “laughing gas,” you will feel happy and relaxed while remaining awake and alert. You can still respond to our instructions under laughing gas.
This sedation is safe for patients of all ages. We will provide laughing gas based on age and weight. Our office can also reverse the effects of sedation if needed.
Oral Conscious: We will provide oral conscious sedation as a pill you will take about an hour before treatment. You will remain alert and can communicate with us but can still enjoy total relaxation. You will need a ride to and from your appointment. This is because it takes time for the medication to wear off.
Which Type of Sedation is Right For Me?
Medical conditions and medications can affect your reaction to sedation. For example, we do not recommend laughing gas for patients with breathing problems. Relaxing can slow breathing and may lead to complications in some patients. Patients allergic to anti-anxiety medications are not good candidates for oral sedation.
For this reason, we will ask you to update your information with any current medications. Medication can negatively interact with sedation.
Dr. Heather Adams will discuss your concerns and fears before your treatment. She will recommend the right option based on your current medications and the dental treatment you need.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Discover more about sedation with answers to these common questions from our patients:
How long does it take to recover from sedation?
If we prescribe anti-anxiety medication for your treatment, it will wear off after 24 hours. We recommend that you remain with someone and not drive during this time. The effects of laughing gas will wear off immediately. You will not need a ride to and from your appointment.
Why do dentists love sedation dentistry?
Patients who have a fear of dentists can be difficult to treat. Our dentists want to help you get the proper treatment.
If you choose sedation, you will be more relaxed. As a result, our dentists can focus on their work and complete more in one appointment. This also means fewer visits for you to get the care you need.
Can I use sedation dentistry if I have a strong gag reflex?
Yes. We may recommend sedation if you have a poor gag reflex because this can make treatment uncomfortable and difficult.
Many people have strong gag reflexes. This can make it difficult and uncomfortable for them to receive dental care. Being sedated will help the muscles relax and allow our dentist to work.
Does insurance cover sedation?
Coverage for sedation varies. Many dental insurance plans cover sedation if they deem it medically necessary. This would include complex procedures or patients with severe anxiety.
However, coverage may be limited or not included if sedation is elective or used for comfort during routine procedures. Check with your insurance provider to understand what they cover under your plan.
Does nitrous oxide help with dental anxiety?
Yes, nitrous oxide indeed helps with dental anxiety. It has a calming effect to make you feel relaxed and at ease during dental procedures. The gas you inhale through a mask works quickly to reduce anxiety. Many patients find that nitrous oxide is effective for mild to moderate dental anxiety.
How safe is oral conscious sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is generally safe when administered by an experienced dentist. It involves taking medication before your dental procedure to help you relax.
You will be awake and responsive during treatment. Our dentist will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure for your safety. Side effects are usually mild and may include drowsiness or a slight headache. However, we will review your medical history and any concerns before your procedure.
Get Comfortable Dental Care Today
Pain-free dental treatment is possible. Call our office for sedation dentistry in Rogers, AR, at (479) 323-3011. Feel free to schedule a dental appointment on our website.
Please let us know if you have any more questions or need to treat your dental anxiety. We’re here to help.