Tag Archives: Plano TX sleep dentistry

I’m too anxious even for a sedation dentist

I’ve spent the last 3 years with so many medical issues that I can’t manage to even see a sedation dentist about the problems that I have with my teeth due to my illnesses and medication. The countless hospital stays and doctors’ appointments have tapped out my emotions. Thankfully I am much better physically but I’m just exhausted from seeing healthcare providers. I know that my teeth need extensive work and I will have to see a dentist, but I’m just afraid. I understand that sedation dentistry is my best option, but I’m anxious about going to the dentist. I just want to get my anxiety under control before I take that step. There isn’t a lot of time for me to do this because my teeth are in poor shape and it is starting to affect my confidence. What can I do to get over this hump? Ava

Ava,

Sedation dentists don’t just give you medication so you can get through your dental appointment. They thoroughly understand dental anxiety, and they are compassionate about it. Part of their training involves seeking to understand why a patient is anxious, and that comes through communication with you.

Your experience with a sedation dentist will evolve from conversation, to education and understanding, to dental treatment. A sedation dentist makes the effort to provide a calming office environment, to hire patient staff members, and to ensure your comfort throughout the dental visit.

We suggest that you schedule appointments to speak with at least two sedation dentists—not for dental treatment—but to get to know the dentist and how he or she can help you address your anxiety. Medication is part of the solution, but so is your relationship with the dentist. When you call to schedule the appointment, explain your concerns and that your request is only for a consultation—no exam or x-rays.

You can get to know the dentist and experience the office environment before you commit to dental treatment.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy. Dr. Lacy’s office is convenient to Addison, Allen, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Frisco, Garland, Highland Park, and Little Elm.

Will sedation help me get all my teeth fixed in one appointment?

I was without dental insurance for 5 years. During that time all I could afford to do was get my teeth cleaned once a year. Before my insurance ended I had major problems with my teeth. So the crowns and fillings she recommended were put on hold. Now I have some major cavities. I am guessing that I will need at least 3 caps on my teeth. One of the teeth is starting to hurt so I hope it doesn’t need a root canal. I am not a person who is usually afraid of the dentist but all the work I think that I will need is making me lean toward a sedation dentist. Just the number of teeth that need to be fixed is making me nervous. I am wondering if a sedation dentist will do all of this work in one appointment. If so it will be worth it for me to find a sedation dentist. Thanks Cheryl

 

Cheryl,

It is good that you are already thinking about seeing a sedation dentist. The amount of work that needs to be completed on your teeth makes sedation appropriate. This treatment allows a dentist to accomplish as much as possible during a single visit.

In order to determine what dental treatment you really need and how much of it can be completed in a single visit, an examination and x-rays are required.

We suggest that you first find two or three experienced sedation dentists who are also cosmetic dentists. Schedule a consultation with each dentist. Find out what levels of sedation are offered and how the dentist determines which level of sedation is right for you.

An examination and x-rays will reveal whether you need root canal treatment and dental crowns. A cosmetic dentist will most likely select treatment options that preserve as much of your tooth structure as possible. At times, porcelain inlays or onlays are a more conservative way to treat teeth. This avoids the need to shave down the tooth structure to accommodate a dental crown.

During the consultation, ask about the forms of payment that are accepted in addition to your dental insurance. You will likely have out-of-pocket costs.

Choose a sedation dentist that you’re comfortable with. Ensure that you’re also comfortable with the staff and office environment. The right dentist will ensure your comfort and give you a beautiful smile.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

 

Dentist refuses to sedate me for 3 fillings

I am a dental phobic. My dentist in Austin understood that and I had no problems getting sedation from her. Now I have a new dentist who tells me I have 3 cavities and refuses to give me sedation. He says that he is gentle and I won’t feel a thing, so no sedation is required. How can I convince him to sedate me before drilling out the cavities? Thanks Clayton

Clayton – You may not be able to convince your dentist to provide you with sedation for your cavities, but you can schedule an appointment to explain your fear to him. If you are not successful, consider seeing another dentist who will provide you the sedation needed to restore your teeth.

There are different levels of sedation, including nitrous oxide, conscious oral sedation, and IV sedation. Many patients successfully receive treatment with nitrous oxide, also called “laughing gas.” It relaxes them enough to have a productive appointment.

For patients that need a higher level of sedation, conscious oral sedation is mild anti-anxiety medication that will make you relaxed and sleepy throughout your dental appointment. It is taken an hour in advance of the appointment. You need to arrange transportation to the appointment. When you arrive, you will be relaxed and ready for treatment. IV sedation is the highest level of sedation.

When you choose a sedation dentist, ask him or her about training and experience in sedation, the levels of sedation offered, and the results you can expect.

Maintaining good oral health is made easier with sedation. You can find a dentist who will respect your anxiety and work to alleviate it to preserve and restore your teeth.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.