While people often joke about being afraid of the dentist, for many individuals, dental anxiety is nothing to laugh about.

The effects of dental phobias range from feeling mildly nervous to getting sweaty palms and a racing heartbeat upon entering the dental office. This anxiety can be so severe that it prevents people from seeing one of our Grand Rapids dentists which can result in costly problems later on.

If you have dental anxiety or dental phobia, you have many helpful options. By talking with our dentists and looking into sedation dentistry, you can feel more comfortable and relaxed during your next dental visit.

Here’s what you need to know about pill sedation and managing your fear at the dentist.

Preventing Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is more common than most people realize. Approximately 25% of American adults and children suffer from some form of dental fear or dental phobia.

If you feel apprehensive about going to the dentist, simply let our dentists know your feelings.

Dental anxiety and phobias have harmful consequences, though each manifests itself differently. Anxiety is milder and causes general uneasiness, while phobia describes an intense fear or dread.

Talking to our dentists about your fear can seem scary on its own but it’s nothing they haven’t heard before. Dentists deal with anxious patients every day and they want to help you overcome what’s holding you back. Communicating with our dentists will only lead to more trust and comfort.

Treatments for Dental Anxiety and Fear

Dentists sometimes administer laughing gas to help soothe stressed-out patients. Many patients find that laughing gas keeps them relaxed and calm throughout the procedure. However, increased adrenaline in some patients may combat the novocaine and make this approach less effective.

If you’ve been putting off years of dental work because of anxiety or fear, you may need to find a specially trained and certified sedation dentist. Sedation dentistry involves taking a small pill before beginning a procedure. It is a simple, safe process that keeps you awake throughout the operation. You’ll also have no memory of the dental treatments performed.

As a result, you’ll be able to have longer, more frequent, and more complex dental services without the usual discomfort. By taking a pill, you can have a comfortable experience and catch up on years of dental work in one or two visits.

Find the Solution That Works for You

One-pill sedation dentistry is a safe and effective alternative for 90% of all dental patients. By finding a trained sedation dentist, you can enjoy the most soothing, comfortable dental experience of your life. Talking with our dentists about your fears should also help to alleviate some of your anxiety.

Say Goodbye to Anxiety at the Dentist

Our dentists in Grand Rapids, MI, want you to feel at ease in our dental office and may recommend pill sedation if your anxiety is severe. Call GR Family Dental at (616) 455-3020 with questions or to request an appointment today.

This blog post has been updated.