As a Kitchener dentist who offers sedation, I have seen the life-changing impact it has on fearful patients. At Dentistry on Lawrence, we think dental fear deserves both genuine sympathy and practical assistance.
Why Dental Fear Should Not Stop You From Smiling
Does the thought of dental appointments get your heart racing? Maybe you’ve postponed much-needed care out of utter fear. Never fear, you’re in good company. As many as 40% of Canadians are anxious about visiting the dentist, and about 10% have outright dental phobia.
The issue is that avoiding dental care typically leads to even bigger problems down the road. Happily, sedation dentistry has completely transformed the experience for my nervous patients.
The Hidden Price of Dental Anxiety
I see it all too often – dental anxiety creates a vicious cycle. Fear leads to missed appointments, which lead to worsening problems, which then require more involved treatment. The cycle only makes the anxiety that much worse.
As a sedation dentist in Kitchener, I’ve helped many residents break this cycle. Many were not even capable of sitting in a dentist’s chair before finding us.
Your Sedation Options Explained
Sedation dentistry is not one-size-fits-all. We offer various levels of relaxation based on your comfort needs and scheduled treatment. Each option is selected with care with your safety as our top priority.
Laughing Gas: Just Enough to Relax
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) provides gentle relaxation that works quickly. You’ll be awake but will be much more relaxed and comfortable. The best part? The effects wear off quickly after treatment, so you can drive home.
Many of my Kitchener patients choose this option for routine cleanings or minor procedures when they only need a little help relaxing.
Oral Sedation: Deep Relaxation in Pill Form
For people with more intense anxiety, oral sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation. You’ll take medication by mouth prior to your visit and be drowsy but still aware during treatment.
Because the effects are longer-lasting, you’ll also need a ride home afterward. A lot of patients tell me they don’t recall much about their procedure – which is exactly what they hoped for!
IV Sedation: The Ultimate Comfort Solution
For more severe dental phobia, I sometimes recommend IV sedation. With this method, we insert sedative medication directly into your bloodstream, creating a very relaxed state. Most patients have no memory of their procedure.
As a dentist who’s offered sedation for over 15 years, I’ve seen this option transform dentistry for patients who never thought they’d be comfortable in a dental chair.
What Actually Happens During Sedation Visits
Your sedation experience begins well before treatment. We’ll initially review your medical history and personal anxieties. Then we’ll create a personalized plan specifically for you.
Before You Arrive
Depending on your level of sedation, you’ll receive special instructions. For IV or oral sedation, you’ll need to have a ride home and possibly alter when you eat or take medications.
Most importantly, we’ll answer any questions you may have beforehand. I want you to be completely prepared and confident for your upcoming appointment.
During Your Treatment
When you visit our Kitchener office, we’ll get you relaxed before we begin. During your procedure, we’ll be keeping an eye on your vital signs constantly. Your safety is always our number one concern.
Most patients describe feeling like they’re floating or napping during treatment. Time zooms by, and discomfort is a non-issue.
After Your Visit with a Dentist Offering Sedation
Following treatment with a sedation dentist, you’ll gradually return to full consciousness. With laughing gas, this happens within minutes. For oral or IV sedation, it takes longer.
We’ll provide you with brief aftercare instructions and check in with you later to make sure you’re doing well.
Real Stories of Transformation
The most rewarding part of being a sedation dentist is seeing patients overcome their fears. People who were not able to bear a simple cleaning in the past can now have regular preventive care.
Just the other day, a patient who had not seen a dentist in 12 years told me, “I never thought I’d say this, but I actually look forward to my dental appointments now.”
Ready to transform your dental experience? Contact Dentistry on Lawrence at 519-744-6533 or visit 232 Lawrence Ave in Kitchener. Let’s work together to give you the calm, stress-free dental care you deserve.