For some people, the fear of dentistry is so great that it prevents them from attending the dentist for regular maintenance such as 6 monthly exams and hygiene visits. They will attend only when in pain, which in turn will reinforce their fear.
We are sympathetic to these feelings and can offer ways to overcome the fears with different techniques. Relaxation is a way in which we can teach our brain to be in control of the body not vice versa.
When we are faced with something we are afraid of, our bodies produce substances which raise our anxiety. Learning relaxation controls our bodies.
Sedation can be administered orally or intravenously.
Is a liquid medication that will take effect 20 minutes after being administered. You become relaxed and unaware of any treatment, but you are still able to co-operate with the dentist. The effect of the sedation takes a few hours to wear off and you must have a companion to take you home.
Is administered by a qualified doctor, an anaesthetist, who will be present during the dental session. He will monitor the blood pressure, breathing level and pulse. It is a safe procedure that most patient like and the recovery time is short.
Or “Relative Analgesia” is a mixture of 25% nitrous oxide, 25% oxygen, and 50% air. You breathe it through a nosepiece and the dentist easily controls it. You stay awake but are unconcerned about the treatment. Recovering time is quick. The mixture leaves the body after just a couple of deep breaths of oxygen.
With time the fear will subside and more conventional methods of anaesthesia will be applied.