Dentophobia may be a fairly uncommon word, but the condition it describes is not. Millions of American adults freely admit that they're afraid to go to the dentist. This fear may range from mild jitters to outright terror at the thought of sitting down in a dentist's chair. According to a recent survey, about one in four people experience apprehension as their appointment draws near. It is no wonder dental professionals have unusually high cancelation rates.
The Dangers
This wouldn't be much of an issue were it not for the fact that human beings cannot take care of their teeth on their own. No matter how often some folks brush, floss, and gargle mouthwash, they can still get cavities. Tooth decay is a degenerative disease, meaning it tends to worsen over time, no matter what you do at home. It takes the skilled hand of a dental professional to repair this damage and improve overall oral health. In other words, you must visit your dentist on a regular basis!
The Solution
Also known as sleep dentistry, sedation dentistry uses medications to help patients relax during office visits. Although usually conscious, most patients do not remember much about the procedure they went in for. Because some folks have severe fear, sedatives can be used for tooth cleanings and other non-invasive procedures. Most of the time, however, sedation is required when painful procedures, such as root canals, force a patient to experience extreme apprehension and fear.
Who Needs It?
Because all medications carry with them certain risks, dentists must determine if sedation dentistry is appropriate in each individual case. A dental professional may administer medications to patients who have
- An extremely low threshold for pain
- Problems sitting still in the dentist's chair
- Unusually sensitive teeth and/or gums
- A sensitive gag reflex
- A need for extensive dental work
Who Performs It?
Most dentists are trained to administer minimal sedation, such as pills or nitrous oxide. But only a relatively small number have experience with moderate or deep sedation dentistry. These are levels of sedation that may require the administration of intravenous (IV) drugs or general anesthesia. Because these medications can be dangerous, dental professionals should complete the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) program in general anesthesia and deep sedation before administering them to patients.
How Safe Is It?
As we mentioned, all drugs have possible side effects. This is particularly true with anesthesia, which can be somewhat risky for certain people. Those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea or are obese, for example, should consult their doctors before scheduling sleep dentistry. It is also extremely important to make certain your dentist has the training and experience needed to administer the medication you require for your procedure.
Sleep dentistry can help patients who suffer from dental phobia get the treatment they desperately need.
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