What Exactly is a Sedation Dentist?

You’ve probably heard the term ‘sedation dentist’ but what does this exactly mean?  A dentist that performs sedation dentistry is a very important part of the industry because their primary goal is to provide a relaxing experience free from anxiety and they encourage more people to get to the dentist for proper care.  Millions of Americans have fears over receiving dental work, but a sedation dentist can calm nerves and make going to the dentist a breeze.

Approximately 30% of the population avoids going to th dentist out of fear according to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS Education).  This statistic is not only staggering but also concerning since dental health is imperative and linked to longevity and overall well-being.  This phobia is preventing individuals from receiving the necessary routine care to ensure a healthy mouth.

The sedation dentist uses a variety of methods to relax a patient such as depressants, tranquilizers, nitrous oxide, anti-anxiety medications, or IVs.  The method used will be based on the patient’s individual needs and what is made available by the dentist practice.  Oral sedation is currently the most common technique being used throughout the US to calm patient nerves and support a relaxing experience.  This technique is very simple and requires no needles, which can be another anxiety inducing moment for many patients already feeling nervous.  If you think this process would help get you to the dentist more often, it’s definitely worth looking into.