Sedation For Nervous People

Dental Phobia

Dental Phobia is a common condition and one with which we at Debenham Dental are particularly good at dealing. We understand that coming to the dentist can be stressful and even frightening, but our staff is trained to help you ease your anxiety and get the most from your visit.

Can I alleviate my fear of the dentist?

Yes! Some people are so frightened of the dentist that they avoid dental treatment altogether but today’s dentists are sympathetic and in recognising that some patients experience real anxiety, they have developed new techniques and approaches to help.

Modern dentistry is very customer focused and as such, IV dental sedation has been developed to help anxious patients overcome their fears.

What is IV sedation?

An effective way to treat the most nervous of patients is via intravenous (IV) sedation. The drugs have a relaxing and calming effect but don’t prevent communication between dentist and patient so treatment can still be carried out easily. Weight, age and medical condition must be assessed before suitability for this kind of sedation but this would all be discussed during the consultation with the dentist.

How will IV sedation in the surgery affect me?

Whilst IV sedation will make you drowsy and unaware of the treatment you are undergoing, you will remain lucid enough to communicate and cooperate with the dental team. The effects of the sedative will take time to wear off and you won’t be able to drink alcohol, drive or work machinery during this time so it is important that someone can help you home for 24 hours after treatment and keep a careful eye on you for sometime afterwards. Your dentist will tell you how long it will be before the drugs are completely clear from your body.

Will I ever feel differently about visiting the dentist?

It is highly likely! As you get to know and trust your dentist, hygienist and other members of the dental team at your practice, your fears will dampen. In time you will come to see your regular visit to the dentist as just another part of your normal life.