Don't Ignore Your Oral Health Because of Fear: We Have Sedation Options

Does the thought of having your teeth cleaned and your mouth examined provoke heart palpitations and sweaty palms? If so, you’re not alone. An estimated 10%-20% of adults suffer from dental anxiety.

But skipping dental care should provoke more concern. Doing so puts you at risk for severe oral health conditions that cost more pain, time, and money in the long run.

Instead, calm your fears and get the treatment you need with sedation dentistry. 

Sedation dentistry is a safe option to calm your nerves, whether you simply have anxiety, sensitive teeth, or low pain tolerance. AnnMarie Olson DDS PA, located in Austin, TX, offers a variety of sedation options for your comfort. Here’s a look at those. 

Types of sedation we offer

Dr. Olson works to find the best sedation option for each patient. These include the following:

Nitrous oxide

Commonly called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask, gradually promoting complete relaxation. Nitrous oxide is extremely safe.

Oral conscious sedation

Oral-conscious sedation is delivered via a pill about an hour before your procedure begins.

If you opt for oral conscious sedation, you will need a ride to and from your appointment. You will be groggy the rest of the day.

IV sedation

Dr. Olson also partners with local dental anesthesiologists who administer dental sedation intravenously. Under IV sedation, you are not necessarily asleep but will feel so deeply relaxed that you’re not fully aware of the procedure. As with oral conscious sedation, you will be groggy the rest of the day with this approach.

The Importance of overcoming dental anxiety

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular dental visits to overcome dental phobia to maintain optimal oral health. These checkups and cleanings should be bi-annual for adults without relevant underlying health risks.

At a dental cleaning, your teeth are professionally cleaned to prevent stains and tooth decay, and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.

The checkup portion of your visit enables the early detection of issues, including cavities, gum recession, and oral cancer. Addressing issues early is simpler and more successful than waiting until problems become severe. 

Poor oral health can also impact your overall health. It has even been linked to conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and dementia.

Be proactive

Don’t let dental anxiety or phobia stop you from getting the dental care you need. If you’re scared to schedule a dental appointment, reach out to our office. Call 512-212-5231 to book an appointment online with AnnMarie Olson, DDS, PA, today.