Are you afraid of the dentist? If so, you are not alone. According to Dentavox market research, 61% of survey respondents said they experience dental fear and almost 4% reported they’ve never been to the dentist. Of the 18,000 respondents, 39% are afraid of pain, 24% are frightened by the smell of chemicals and 21% are scared of the sound of the drill.
Many people with dental anxiety cope with this common fear by avoiding the dentist until a toothache is unbearable. This delay in dental treatment increases the likelihood of a worsening, painful infection and can lead to other health issues.
The First Step to Overcoming Dental Anxiety
Ironically, the easiest way to avoid this pain and panic is to visit a dentist regularly. The first step to overcoming a fear is getting to the “root” of the problem. (a little dental humor to relax you). To start, talk openly with the dentist about your fears. The anticipation of the unknown can build into real anxiety. Ask questions about your pain management, treatment and other concerns. At the Collegeville Gentle Dentist, Dr. Geetha Srinivasan and Dr. John Foore take the time to explain procedures and alleviate your fears.
How to Ease Your Dental Fears
For those with mild anxiety, relaxation techniques like deep breathing or distractions like music or television can be calming. To cancel out the shrill sound of the dental drill, noise-cancelling headphones with soothing music can help. The friendly Collegeville Gentle Dentist team is focused on your comfort and trained to put patients at ease. We love to chat and laugh with our patients.
When Relaxation Techniques Aren’t Enough
Patients who need more help relaxing during dental procedures or suffer from dental phobia may benefit from IV conscious sedation. This moderate sedation puts a patient into a deep state of relaxation. The IV administration takes effect quickly and allows the dentist to continuously control the level of sedation. This safe and effective pain management is often used in combination with a local anesthetic to numb the area where the dentist is working for a worry-free, pain-free experience.
Who Can Administer IV Moderate Sedation
Dr. Geetha Srinivasan is among a select group of dentists certified by the state of Pennsylvania Board of Dentistry to administer Conscious IV dental sedation. Dr. Srinivasan will work with you to evaluate your dental treatment needs, overall health and level of anxiety. We also communicate with your primary care practitioner to achieve optimum and safe sedation for your unique needs.
Preparing for IV Conscious Sedation
Our office will give you detailed instructions prior to your treatment. You will be alert, but groggy after the procedure, and you will need a family member or friend to drive you home. For more information about sedation dentistry, please call our office.
If you are afraid of the dentist or have been putting off dental treatment because of anxiety, the compassionate Collegeville Gentle Dentist team can help.