Do you avoid the dentist at all costs? Does the idea of sitting in the dentist’s chair fill you with dread? If so, you may be one of thousands of Americans who have dental anxiety. Dental anxiety makes it difficult to schedule preventive care every 6 months. As a result, you may have a higher risk of needing emergency dental care. Continue reading to learn how you can stop from controlling your life. Our emergency dentist in Holland, MI is here to help!
How Do I Stop Being Anxious at the Dentist?
If you have dental anxiety or phobia, our dentist may recommend sedation dentistry. The goal of sedation dentistry is to help you relax in the dentist’s chair so you can get the care you need to maintain a healthy smile. Our dentist offers laughing gas, which is safe for patients of all ages. While you’ll still be awake for your procedure, laughing gas helps you feel more at ease.
If you feel apprehensive about going to the dentist, simply let our dentist know your feelings. Dental anxiety is more common than most people realize. According to WebMD.com, between 9% and 20% of Americans have or fear that prevents them from seeing a dentist.
What is Dental Anxiety and Phobia?
Dental anxiety and phobia have harmful consequences, though each occurs differently. Anxiety is milder and causes general uneasiness, while phobia describes an intense fear or dread. If you think you suffer from either, you should talk to our dentist. Our dentist has experience helping patients just like you overcome their fears. Communicating with our emergency dentist will only lead to more trust and comfort.
How Do You Manage Dental Anxiety?
Our dentist can give you laughing gas to help you relax. Laughing gas can be used for any procedure, including your next routine teeth cleaning if needed. Before we begin your procedure, we’ll gently place a mask over your nose that supplies nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen (laughing gas). Many of our patients appreciate that laughing gas works within a couple of minutes and is just as quick to wear off once we remove the mask.
Unlike other types of sedation dentistry, you’ll be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. Likewise, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to return to work or school after your appointment with us. Our dentist will make sure you have all the facts you need to decide if conscious sedation is the right choice for you.
If you’ve had a bad prior experience with a dentist, we recommend scheduling your appointment with us as soon as possible. Our laughing gas dentist can help you overcome your dental anxiety by creating a safe space to talk about your fears. Unlike other offices, we offer both conscious sedation and emergency dental care.
Dr. Ryan Lebster is an emergency dentist in Holland, MI. To request an appointment, call RediDental Emergency Dental Care at (616) 796-3200.
