Sedation dentistry is an important technique for reducing anxiety during dental treatments. But while sedation is most commonly associated with treatments that are more complex, it actually has a much broader application. If you have been delaying an appointment with your Marietta dentist, it might be time to consider the benefits of sedation teeth cleaning.
Getting Your Teeth Cleaned With Sedation
A deep teeth cleaning is a necessary dental procedure to help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. During this process your dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. However, the anxiety that many patients feel can make them avoid this treatment.
Fortunately, with the help of sedation, people with anxieties, fears, physical conditions or developmental disorders can still access the highest level of dental care. Patients usually remain awake during the tooth scaling and root planing process, and also get the benefit of a pain-free, more relaxing treatment.
How Sedation Dentistry Helps With Dental Cleaning
What is sedation dentistry? Simply put, sedation dentistry is the use of medication to calm and relax a patient during a dental procedure. This approach is crucial in tackling two of the most common dental issues that individuals face during treatment – fear and pain.
According to Dentistry Journal , between 5–15% of the world’s population experiences high dental anxiety or phobia. Naturally, a person who is reluctant to visit their dentist could face gum inflammation, and the inflammation may cause pain during a dental cleaning. Because sedation addresses concerns with pain and offers a soothing sensation, patients can remain awake and get the treatment they need.
Dentists Commonly Use These Sedation Methods
- Nitrous Oxide – Patients with mild dental anxiety may only require the least potent option, commonly referred to as laughing gas. This medication is a fast-acting gas that is breathed in through the nose.
- Oral Sedatives – Oral sedatives help deal with a higher level of anxiety. The sedative is taken around an hour before the treatment, and may cause a patient to fall asleep during the cleaning.
- Intravenous Sedatives – For people with the most severe anxiety, IV sedation dentistry is typically used during more complex dental procedures.
Why Should You Consider Sedation Teeth Cleaning?
Sedation for dental cleanings and oral exams is appropriate in various cases. It’s a good idea to discuss the following issues with your dentist before an appointment.
- When anxiety or a phobia is preventing effective dental care
- If you have sensitive teeth or gums that cause significant pain
- If you experienced a negative experience with a previous dentist
Contact Us for Sedation Teeth Cleaning in Marietta
Shining Smiles Family Dentistry is Marietta’s leading dental office for sedation teeth cleaning. Contact us today for help with family dentistry, restorative oral care and cosmetic dental treatments. Call (770) 420-8550 or request an appointment now.
