Gentle Dental Care: Does It Really Exist?

You’ve heard of claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces) and arachnophobia (fear of spiders), but did you know that many people have another type of phobia that involves fear of the dentist, or more specifically of dentistry? It’s true, this is called dentophobia, and it’s common among people of all ages. But, you don’t have to have dentophobia to be reluctant about going to the dentist. Feeling anxious is something many people experience when heading to their dental appointments. That’s where the concept of “gentle dental care” can make a difference!

Is gentle dental care the answer for everyone?

Most dentists are very conscious that their patients may be nervous, and make every effort to make them as comfortable and relaxed as possible. However, for some with severe dental anxiety, this may not be enough to assuage their fears.

For those whose fear keeps them from seeking the dental care they need, conscious sedation may be the answer. As its name implies, conscious sedation is not the same as being anesthetized. You remain awake, yet in a relaxed, slightly altered state of consciousness, and you do not feel pain or discomfort. You’ll be able to respond to questions or directions from your dentist, and best of all, you’ll be anxiety-free during your entire procedure!

After Conscious Sedation

After undergoing this treatment, you’ll be monitored until you’re fully alert. It does take a day or two to fully recover from conscious sedation, so you’ll need to arrange for somebody to drive you to and from the dentist, and you should not drive for the next 48 hours or so.

Gentle dentistry in Fredericksburg, Virginia

For the ultimate gentle dental care, visit us at Smile Center in Fredericksburg, VA or Ashland, VA. We have a room that is specially designed for conscious sedation and a team of professionals whose goal is to make you feel relaxed and comfortable.

Published: August 19, 2017