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Question: “Dr. Jordan, I am terrified of going to the dentist, but I know I have a lot of work that needs to be done. What can be done to make this easier for me without “knocking me out?”
Answer: “You are definitely not alone in feeling this way. Millions of Americans feel tremendous anxiety concerning dental treatment. In fact, fear, coupled with embarrassment and shame has kept nearly half of all Americans from seeking necessary treatment for years, if not decades. Fortunately, many of these people have found out that “dental phobia” doesn’t have to keep them away from the dentist any longer!
Amenities like headphones, movies, and “laughing gas,” will help “take the edge off,” but often these steps aren’t enough to completely alleviate fear. For some fearful patients, sedation dentistry is “just what the doctor ordered!” With oral conscious sedation, patients just take a safe, little pill one hour before their appointment. This pill helps them to relax and aids in eliminating their fear.”
Most patients snooze through the appointment, feel no discomfort, and have no memory of the procedures. Years of dental neglect are often erased in just one appointment, without undergoing general anesthesia. Many of these fearful patients begin chewing without pain and smiling with confidence for the first time in years! These benefits are often life-changing for people who have procrastinated getting their mouths healthy or enhancing their smiles. Sedation dentistry is even beneficial for patients who aren’t fearful, but would like to be more comfortable during lengthy dental procedures.
You should pursue having your dental work completed as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems. Oral conscious sedation might be exactly what you need in order to overcome your fear and get your mouth healthy again.
For more information on this or any other dental topic call Dr. Jordan: 912.537.7211
and we’ll set you up with your first visit and ease you back into great dental health.
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