Generalized anxiety is a common and manageable disorder that affects a certain percentage of the population. Symptoms usually include depression, overthinking, negative thoughts and sleeplessness. Generalized anxiety can also manifest as dental anxiety. A patient is so overwhelmed with thoughts of physical pain, discomfort and botched dental procedures that he or she refuses to seek necessary dental attention.

The same people are extremely averse to dentists and anything that has to do with dental procedures. As a result, their dental problems become worse. Instead of just a small filling, they may need root canal therapy or complex dental work. To address the needs of patients who suffer from generalized anxiety, some clinics offer sedation dentistry. These clinics employ dental professionals qualified to administer the proper dose of sedatives to patients with dental anxiety or those who simply want to get treated in total comfort.

Patients who take sedatives feel relaxed enough to sit through lengthy and otherwise uncomfortable dental procedures. Sedatives calm you down and put you in a relaxed state. You are groggy, but aware of everything that goes on during the procedure. You may even be able to communicate with your dentist.

Tips for Patients with Anxiety

It’s important to stay on your medication (if you therapist has prescribed any) and to go through talk therapy on a regular basis. If you need to go to the dentist, but feel too anxious to do so, inform a friend or family member so that they can give you the support you need. You can even ask them to go to the clinic with you.

Do your research on clinics that offer sedation dentistry. Only make appointments with clinics that have the proper equipment and credentials. Inform your dentist of any allergies/reactions to sedatives and medications you may be taking. If this is your first time to get dental treatment under sedation, you may want to consult your physician first.

Santa Cruz implant dentist Dr. Matiasevich offers Intravenous or IV Sedation to manage extreme anxiety or dental phobia. IV sedation offers a deeper level of sedation for patients getting dental implants. Learn more by calling us at 831-706-2081.

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