Dental anxiety or phobia is a real problem for many people, preventing them from seeking the dental care they need. Unfortunately, this often results in complex dental problems, including tooth loss, that harm daily quality of life. Dr. Brent Engelberg provides sedation dentistry options to enable those suffering from dental anxiety to feel relaxed and comfortable during treatment. Sedation dentistry can also perform several dental treatments during a single visit.
Many patients tell us how much they used to dread going to the dentist before finding our office. We aim to create a positive patient experience so you can sit back, relax, and look forward to your upcoming dental appointments and procedures. Dr. Brent Engelberg has some tips to help patients with dental anxiety overcome their fears of the dentist. Here are three things you can do to help you relax at the dentist’s office.
Who Benefits From Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry helps patients feel calm and comfortable during dental procedures. Many people experience anxiety or discomfort when visiting the dentist, and sedation can make treatments easier and less stressful.
1. Patients with Dental Anxiety or Phobia
One of the main reasons people avoid the dentist is fear. Some patients experience mild anxiety, while others have a deep fear of dental procedures, known as dental phobia. This fear can cause people to delay or avoid necessary treatments, leading to worse oral health problems. Sedation dentistry helps these patients feel at ease, making it easier for them to get the care they need without stress or panic.
2. People with a Strong Gag Reflex
A sensitive gag reflex can make dental visits uncomfortable. Some patients struggle with x-rays, impressions, or routine cleanings because their gag reflex is triggered. Sedation relaxes the body and reduces the gag reflex, allowing dentists to perform procedures more easily while keeping patients comfortable.
3. Patients Who Need Extensive or Multiple Procedures
Some dental treatments, like deep cleanings, root canals, or multiple fillings, can take a long time. Sitting through lengthy procedures can be tiring and uncomfortable. Sedation dentistry helps patients relax during these treatments, making the process feel shorter and easier. It can also allow the dentist to complete multiple procedures in one visit, reducing the need for multiple appointments.
4. Individuals with Sensitive Teeth or Low Pain Tolerance
Even routine dental cleanings can be uncomfortable for some people due to tooth sensitivity. Others have a low tolerance for pain, making dental procedures difficult. Sedation minimizes discomfort, making dental care more manageable for pain-sensitive patients.
5. Children or Adults Who Struggle to Sit Still
Young children, individuals with ADHD, and people with special needs may have difficulty sitting still during dental procedures. Sedation helps them stay calm and still, allowing the dentist to complete treatments safely and efficiently. This is especially helpful for children who feel scared or restless in the dental chair.
6. Patients with Special Needs
People with physical or cognitive disabilities may have trouble tolerating dental procedures. Conditions like autism, cerebral palsy, or Parkinson’s disease can make it difficult to stay still or follow instructions. Sedation helps these patients remain relaxed, ensuring they receive the dental care they need in a stress-free manner.
7. Those with Traumatic Dental Experiences
Some patients avoid the dentist because of bad experiences in the past. A painful procedure or negative encounter can create long-term fear and anxiety. Sedation dentistry helps these individuals feel safe and comfortable, making it easier to overcome their past experiences and maintain good oral health.
Come Prepared
Many patients experience a big stressor when settling in at a new dentist’s office. There will be some paperwork to fill out, and we may ask for certain documents from you to ensure we can provide you with the care you need. Being well-prepared for your appointment will ensure the doctor has all the information needed to provide the best possible care for you. It will also help relieve any unnecessary dental anxiety you may be feeling.
If you plan on scheduling your first appointment with AH Smiles, we have made it easy for you to prepare for your appointment. You may access all of our patient forms below:
- All Forms
- Patient Registration
- Dental & Medical History
- Insurance & Financial Policies
- Health Information Privacy Policy & Procedures
- Notice of Privacy Practices
Don’t Hold Back and Ask Questions
Another factor contributing to dental anxiety is not knowing what to expect when sitting in the dental chair. We recommend asking questions before, during, and after your appointment. Please let us know anytime if you need further information about your dental health procedures!
We prioritize patient education initiatives. We do our best to answer all of your questions so that you feel confident about your dental procedures and treatments received. Dr. Engelberg believes that an informed patient is a healthier patient. That’s why we provide you with everything you need about dental health care.
What to Expect
AH Smiles uses different oral sedatives when needed in addition to multiple enhanced anesthetic measures to ensure patient comfort. Combined, these measures allow patients to feel completely relaxed during treatment while remaining awake and cooperative. The effects of sedation can be titrated and controlled depending on the length of the procedure and patient requirements.
You can also consider bringing a trusted friend to your appointment for additional measures. You may also bring headphones and listen to your favorite music while we work on your teeth.
If you are looking for a compassionate and comprehensive dentist in Arlington Heights, IL, visit Dr. Brent Engelberg at AH Smiles. Before your treatment, Dr. Engelberg will discuss your personal concerns and fears and recommend the appropriate sedation option. If you have been avoiding the dentist for some time, schedule an appointment with Dr. Engelberg to begin restoring your natural smile.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sedation dentistry can benefit a variety of different patients. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
What leads patients to choose sedation dentistry?
Patients who choose sedation dentistry often have anxiety or a past experience that makes them nervous about going to the dentist or having a procedure. Reasons for this choice may be phobias of dental procedures, a scary or bad past experience with dentists, sensitive nerves, a small mouth, or a general anxiety disorder. If you want to learn more about sedation dentistry, ask your dentist about your options and if they think you may be a good candidate.
Are there side effects related to sedation in dental procedures?
Patients usually experience headaches after being sedated for a dental procedure. Sedation for dental procedures is typically short and milder than that for larger-scale surgical operations. Some may also experience nausea or a loss of appetite. These symptoms occur in most people post-sedation but are not a concern until 48 hours after the operation.
What activities can I do after I have been sedated?
Post-sedation feelings vary from patient to patient, depending on the level of sedation, so it is important to ensure that you have someone around to help you for at least 24 hours after your operation. It is also important not to drive for 24 hours after being sedated. Many people sleep after being sedated so that they do not feel any of the negative side effects.
How long does it take the sedation to wear off after a procedure?
Sedation gradually wears off during the course of the day after the operation. Patients start to feel normal between 6-8 hours after the operation. Most patients can return to normal work and activities within 24 hours of the procedure.
What shouldn’t I do before dental sedation?
Don’t eat anything for two hours before your procedure. This includes even water. Sedation can make people nauseous, and you may even throw up during the procedure. Don’t wear clothing that’s uncomfortable. We also need to be able to put a blood pressure cuff on your arm. If you have any congestion, let us know. You need to breathe through your nose for nitrous oxide to work.
Am I a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Many patients are eligible for sedation. We’ll review your current health state, medications, and medical history. Certain medical conditions can make sedation unsafe for you. We’ll never sedate you unless you’re an ideal candidate for the sedation procedure.