A Pleasurable Trip to the Dentist Thanks to Dental Sedation

Statistics reveal that millions of people nowadays are not visiting a dentist. One reason might be that they have allowed their innate fear of dental procedures to take priority over their need for good oral health. Fortunately, for those who may be overwhelmed with dental phobia, there is a simple and completely safe solution. It is called dental sedation and the drugs used have been around since the late 1800's. In today's world, these drugs have been proven effective and safe when administered by a dental professional.

It is extremely important that people overcome their fears of dental procedures. Not only can never visiting a dentist leave someone with cosmetic defects over a period of time, but studies have proven that poor dental hygiene from not having regular dental checkups can adversely affect other areas of our health.

Some health complications which have been discovered to be linked with poor dental health are: cardiovascular disease; diabetes, which increases many risks in the mouth. Even osteoporosis can be diagnosed in its early stages with routine dental X-rays. Gum disease produces millions of bacteria which, if left untreated, can enter a person's bloodstream and wreak havoc.

Some critics have labeled dental sedation as, "sedation for cowards," but it has been proven to be most effective for many who struggle with inhibitions and fears that may have arisen in the past from dental discomfort or pain. Because they are not the best sensations, it's quite acceptable to use dental sedation if deemed necessary by both patient and dentist.

There are several kinds of dental sedation. One is oral sedation which is administered by mouth to the patient an hour or so prior to their procedure. Another one is intravenous, or IV, which can only be induced by a board certified sedation dentist immediately before the procedure begins. Oral sedation is generally used by patients who have mild to moderate fear and just basically need to calm down without the necessity of losing complete awareness of all that is going on around them. IV is really for those who are overtaken by stronger fears of pain, previous traumatic dental memories, or they wish to prevent future negative memories.

Another advantage is that for many people, the use of Novocain or anesthetics is not an option. Many have uncomfortable but non-threatening reactions to these drugs and the substitute of oral or IV medication will eliminate the uncomfortable symptoms they would suffer if given a known allergen. Dental sedation is also extremely beneficial for those who are facing oral surgery such as extractions, implants, cosmetic dental surgery, or even someone with a strong gag reflex.

If you struggle with even the thought of having regular dental checkups, now you know you have a comfortable and acceptable option. It may not alleviate the need to visit a dentist, but it could make visiting the oral care professional a breeze instead of an event to be feared.