Probably the most enjoyable dental experience that I’ve ever had. Cannot say enough about how friendly and professional the staff were, and the office was absolutely beautiful!
Dental fear can turn a simple appointment into something you want to avoid. You might worry about pain, needles, unfamiliar sounds, or sitting in the dental chair. Dental sedation in New Market can help you feel more relaxed when anxiety makes care difficult.
Call Tate Family Dentistry at 301-872-3823 for an appointment. Also, you can also take practical steps to prepare your mind before treatment begins.
The key: You do not have to pretend you are comfortable. Be open about your worries before your appointment gets underway. Once your dental team knows how you feel, they can adjust their approach to help you feel more at ease.
Pinpoint What Makes Dental Visits Stressful
Consider which parts of a dental appointment cause your anxiety to rise. Understanding these concerns can help you and your dental team decide what may make care easier. For example, a difficult experience with dental treatment in the past may still affect how you feel today.
You might dislike needles, worry about bad news, or feel uncomfortable when someone works inside your mouth. Tell your dental team about these concerns before treatment. They can answer questions and explain what will happen during your visit.
Prepare Yourself Before the Appointment
A little planning can keep extra stress from building on appointment day. Give yourself plenty of time to reach the office instead of rushing through the door.
Try these ideas:
- Write down questions before your visit
- Wear clothing that helps you feel comfortable
- Practice slow breathing while you wait
- Ask your dentist to explain each part of treatment
- Choose a hand signal when you need to pause
Take control: Knowing you can ask questions or request a break may make treatment feel less overwhelming.
Consider Nitrous Oxide for Mild Anxiety
Nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas, provides a mild form of dental sedation in New Market. A small mask rests over your nose so you can inhale the nitrous oxide.
You remain alert enough to communicate while the gas helps create a more relaxed feeling. Once your procedure is finished and the nitrous oxide is turned off, its calming effects usually fade within a short time.
Your dentist can explain whether nitrous oxide is a good fit for your health, anxiety level, and planned procedure.
Ask About Oral Conscious Sedation
Some patients need a greater level of relaxation. Oral conscious sedation uses medication to help you feel calm and drowsy during dental care.
You remain conscious, although you may feel sleepy. Your memory of the visit may be limited once the procedure is over.
Before deciding if oral sedation is right for you, your dentist will consider your overall health and any medicines you currently take. You will also learn what steps to follow before your visit and how to care for yourself once treatment is complete.
Because the medicine does not wear off right away, plan for a responsible adult to drive you home if your dentist instructs you to do so.
Focus on One Step at a Time
Thinking about the whole procedure at once may make your anxiety grow. Instead, focus only on what is happening at that moment.
Listen to your dentist’s instructions and use slow breathing to stay centered. If you start feeling overwhelmed, use the signal you agreed on and take a short break.
Each positive visit can also help you learn which strategies make dental care easier for you.
Take Action Before Dental Problems Grow
The bottom line: Avoiding the dentist may calm your fear for the moment, but untreated dental problems can become more serious. Getting the right support may help you receive care sooner.
Depending on your needs, dental sedation in New Market may include nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation. Your dentist can help you compare these options and decide whether either is appropriate.
Call Tate Family Dentistry at 301-872-3823 for an appointment. You can also request an appointment online. Let’s discuss your dental anxiety and create a plan for a calmer visit.