An estimated 100 million Americans experience dental anxiety. For many, fear or anxiety associated with dental work prevents them from visiting the dentist when they need dental care. Unfortunately, avoiding the dentist out of anxiety and fear can lead to severe oral health concerns. Regular dental visits and timely treatment can prevent more serious oral health problems in the future.

If you experience dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be an option to help you become more comfortable and relaxed during treatment. Several levels of sedation in dentistry are available, including light sedation with the use of nitrous oxide, conscious sedation using a combination of nitrous oxide and oral tranquilizers, or IV sedation for those with very severe anxiety.

Sedation dentistry can also be helpful for those who dislike shots and need anesthetic injections, for those requiring extensive dental treatment, for those who do not numb easily, or for those with a sensitive gag reflex.

Sedation dentistry has a long record of safety and effectiveness. Nitrous oxide has been used for more than 150 years, while oral sedation has been used in dentistry for nearly 20 years. Your personal level of sedation will be determined by your health status, the amount of anxiety you tend to experience, and our dentist’s recommendations.

If you are interested in learning more about sedation in dentistry, it is important that you discuss your needs with our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist who will further explain your options. Please do not let anxiety or fear keep you from receiving the dental treatment you need to maintain your oral health. Our Los Angeles dentist will work to ensure you receive the most comfortable, relaxed experience possible.

Source: Los Angeles Dentist

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