Many people struggle with dental anxiety. It is much more common than most people realize with some estimates reporting that between nine and 15 percent of Americans have a fear of the dentist. Your dentist might recommend that your child be administered anesthesia or sedation to relax them in order to safely complete some dental procedures. Parents should feel free to ask their dental professional any qustions regarding the safety of this procedure.  Typically, this is  a routine step and is necessary for the best possible outcome. Both children and adults often put off routine dental visits. As a result, many people avoid getting dental treatments entirely. Luckily, there is a cure for this phobia known as sedation dentistry.  
   
 Local Anesthesia  
Anesthesia is generally the only option available to patients who require extreme dental procedures, such as extractions and cyst removal. Your dentist will usually apply a topical anesthetic to numb an area in preparation to administer an injectable local anesthetic. Unlike general anesthesia, a local anesthetic will only numb one certain area of the mouth where the dentist needs to operate. In some cases, the dentist is able to combine an anesthetic with other forms of sedation to make the patient relax.

Nitrous Oxide   
For individuals with a mild fear of the dentist or have trouble remaining calm in the dentist’s chair, nitrous oxide is a huge asset. It is commonly referred to as “laughing gas.” It does not use any needles, and its effects quickly onset. The patient remains fully conscious and can follow any instructions the dentist provides such as opening the mouth wider. Additionally, the patient can drive home following the appointment.   

 IV Sedation    
This kind of sedation is administered intravenously, making the individual drowsy. It is a safe option for people with circulatory disorders, diabetes and heart disease. Patients can still breathe on their own, and in the event someone becomes uncomfortable over the course of the procedure, the patient can alert the dentist of the situation. There are fewer side effects, as well as a decreased likelihood of nausea and blood clots.     

 These Forms of Sedation Are All Available at Our Office  
Millions of Americans benefit from sedation dentistry every year, and Dr. Brand Ahn has helped numerous people in the Larkspur, CA area get the treatments the need. Schedule your appointment today, and make sure to ask about sedation if you feel anxious in the dentist’s chair.