How to Overcome Dental Anxiety

Are you afraid of going to the dentist? Millions of Americans suffer from dental anxiety, causing them to delay important dental appointments and cleanings. This can put their oral health at risk. It doesn’t have to be that way. Sedation dentistry uses modern methods to relax dental patients during their visit to the dentist, giving them relief for their anxiety. At West County Dental, we offer the following options for sedation dentistry:

Oral Conscious Sedation – The Pill Method

This method of sedation is administered by taking a pill prior to arrival at the dentist’s office. It puts the patient in a relaxed state but lets them stay conscious and able to respond. For safety reasons, the patient will need a friend or family member to drive them to and from the appointment.

Nitrous Oxide – The Gas Method

Also referred to as nitrous, laughing gas or NO, nitrous oxide is delivered through a mask over the nose, and the level of nitrous oxide dispensed is carefully controlled by your dentist. Nitrous oxide creates a mild sedative effect that lets the patient relax. As with the pill method, patients remain conscious and able to communicate with their dentist during the entire procedure.

Both of these methods of sedation dentistry are great solutions for anyone who has become paralyzed with fear at the thought of undergoing a dental procedure. Virtually all of our dental care treatments can be performed under some degree of sedation to help put you at ease. If your dental anxiety is caused by embarrassment about the state of your teeth or gums, rest assured, we have seen it all and do not judge. We know all the reasons why a patient’s dental health may be poor, and many are beyond their control. Our mission is to use our compassion and expertise to put you back into a state of dental health with minimal discomfort.

Find out More

If you have any questions at all about sedation dentistry or dental anxiety, give us a call or stop by. At West County Dental, we provide personalized family dental care using state of the art procedures. Adhering to a standard of excellence, we provide comprehensive treatment, from preventive care to restorative dentistry. When you reserve a visit with West County Dental, you can be confident that our team of highly-trained dental professionals will provide you the care you need for a healthy smile. Call (314) 488-2921 or contact us through our website today!