To ease anxiety, dentistry has developed sedation methods that help patients relax during dental treatment.
Did you know 50% of people admit to some form of anxiety visiting the dentist, with roughly 1 in 6 avoiding dental care altogether because of it? To ease anxiety, dentistry has developed sedation methods that help patients relax during dental treatment.
Searching for a new dental clinic is challenging for someone who has
dental anxiety, fear, and traumatic experiences in a dental chair. The staff and doctors at the Dental Anesthesia Center were immediately very welcoming. Dr. Thoms put together a very detailed plan to repair and replace the previous work that I had in the past that was now causing problems. Putting my faith in him was the best thing that I could have done for my situation. I am more than completely satisfied with all of the extensive dental work that I’ve had with Dr.Thoms. I had my fourth sleep dentistry experience yesterday and I’m very happy with my results. I highly recommend this practice and truly want to give them more than five stars! Thank you for giving me back my health and confidence.
I adding to this post because of my visit today with the best dental hygienist Delaina and my exam with Dr. Biehl. I have truly never been to such a caring and supportive dental group. Everyone is always conscientious of my needs and knows that I have issues with anxiety. I am always calm when I am sitting in the chair because of their kindness. I am so pleased with the Dental anesthesia center. There needs to be more than five stars. Thank you, everyone.
Response from the owner:We know it isn’t always easy to find a dental office where you feel at ease, so your words mean the world to us. We’re so glad you feel comfortable with our team and truly appreciate your trust and recommendation!
I am unusually tense about my appointments. However, from the moment I checked in I relaxed. The staff was welcoming and assuring, and helped me to relax completely. Dr. Hofmann is superb. He is by far the best dentist and dental surgeon I have ever ever experienced.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad our team helped create a welcoming and comforting experience. We appreciate you sharing your feedback!
I cannot thank this clinic enough for their amazing care. They completely accommodated my individual needs by letting him wait in the hallway where he had more room for his feet and space to pace. Instead of forcing him into a tiny exam room, the dentist came out to the hallway to check his mouth. It made the entire visit so much easier for him. Fantastic service!
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your kind words! We're grateful for the opportunity to provide compassionate, individualized care and appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Wishing you all the best!
Great experience! The staff went above and beyond to make my individual comfortable. They let him wait in the hallway so he could pace instead of staying in the crowded waiting room. The dentist even examined him right there. Highly recommend this accommodating team! Fantastic service!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're honored by your recommendation and are committed to providing compassionate, individualized care for every person we serve. We truly appreciate your kind words!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We appreciate your thoughtful words and are grateful you took the time to share your experience with our team.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
Many can achieve relaxation with an oral sedative taken about an hour before a visit. , some with acute anxiety may need deeper sedation through an intravenous (IV) injection of medication. Unlike general anesthesia, which achieves complete unconsciousness to block pain, IV sedation reduces consciousness to a controllable level. Patients aren’t so much “asleep” as in a “semi-awake” state that’s safe and effective for reducing anxiety.
While there are various IV medications, the most popular for dental offices are the benzodiazepines, most often Midazolam (Versed). Benzodiazepines act quickly and wear off faster than similar drugs and have a good amnesic effect (you won’t recall details while under its influence). While relatively safe, they shouldn’t be used with individuals with poor liver function because of their adverse interaction with liver enzymes.
Other drugs or substances are often used in conjunction with IV sedation. Nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) may be introduced initially to help with anxiety over the IV needle stick. Sometimes, pain-reducing drugs like Fentanyl may be added to the IV solution to boost the sedative effect and reduce the primary drug’s amount.
If we recommend IV sedation for your dental treatment, there are some things you should do to help the procedure go smoothly and safely. Because the after-effects of sedation may impair your driving ability, be sure you have someone with you to take you home. Don’t eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your appointment, and consult with both your physician and dentist about taking any prescription medication beforehand. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and don’t wear contact lenses or oral appliances like dentures or retainers, watches, or other jewelry.
The Dental Anesthesia Center
Our top priority is safety. We follow strict standards and protocols regarding IV sedation, and you’ll be carefully monitored before, during, and after your procedure. Performed with the utmost care, IV sedation could make your next dental procedure pleasant and uneventful and improve your oral health.
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The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.
