Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety can be quite paralyzing. The very thought of having to visit a dental office can induce panic attacks or cause nausea, headaches, and more. But you have to live with this dental anxiety no more. There are plenty of anxiety-managing techniques to help you make it through dental cleaning or other complicated procedures. At Roshan Emam DDS in Palo Alto, CA, we provide various sedation methods to help overcome your dental anxiety.

What Are the Causes of Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety can be due to various reasons such as:

• A previous traumatic dental experience
• Trauma to the head or neck
• Previous stressful experiences, including abuse
• Depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), or other related mental illness
• Claustrophobia
• Fear of loss of control
• Issues in trusting someone else
• Sense of invasion of personal space when the inside of the mouth is touched

What Are the Types Of Sedation?

If you have ever avoided a dental appointment because of anxiety or other reasons linked to not being able to relax, sedation can help you get the necessary treatments. There are several types of sedation techniques that include the following:

• Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is the mildest kind of sedation used in dentistry. Our dentist Dr. Emam will place a nose mask on your face during this sedation procedure through which the nitrous oxide gas is administered. The gas will help you relax. This anesthetic also lessens pain and anxiety.

• Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves the use of anxiety drugs. It will help by putting you into a state of deep relaxation. However, its effect will remain several hours after taking the pill. As a precautionary measure, arrange for someone to take you back home after the procedure.

• IV Sedation

Intravenous sedation is the most intensive method of sedation. IV sedation will help acutely anxious patients undergo long and complicated procedures like oral surgeries. Patients usually have very little memory of the treatment after the procedure. In this type of sedation, the patient is continuously monitored throughout the process. If necessary, more medication can be given to the patient to reduce their anxiety and discomfort levels.

During your visit, Dr. Emam and his dental staff will spend additional time with you to better understand the causes and symptoms of your dental anxiety. We will ensure that you have a comfortable experience to protect your smile and enjoy good oral health. Call Roshan Emam DDS in Palo Alto, CA at (650) 321-0340 to schedule an appointment and know more about our sedation techniques.