IV Sedation Dentistry

If dental anxiety makes it challenging to get the care you need for a healthy smile, sedation dentistry offers a chance for relief. Our dentists at WA Dental in Federal Way, Washington, offer outstanding sedation dentistry options to help make your next visit free of anxiety. To learn more about sedation dentistry, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is dental anxiety?

Dental anxiety is a pervasive fear of dental care, dental tools, or anything having to do with oral treatments. It’s more common than you might think, affecting 50%-80% of American adults. 

Understandably, coming in for dental care may not be your favorite way to spend an hour. Still, when anxiety reaches the level where you’re upset, unable to relax, or trying to ignore pressing dental care needs, it’s time to seek help. 

Dental anxiety sometimes stems from a previous negative experience. Pop culture portrayals of painful and frightening dental treatments don’t help. In many cases, there’s no clear cause of anxiety.  

WA Dental offers sedation dentistry tools and techniques to help you relax during your time in the office. That ensures you get the care you need to achieve and maintain great dental health. 

How can I overcome dental anxiety?

Sometimes, it takes a few successful, and enjoyable visits to WA Dental to ease your fears about dental treatment. Kids who fear dental care often respond well to being encouraged to ask questions about what to expect.

For others, sedation dentistry is a need that continues throughout their lifetime. Routine dental care is essential to your dental and overall health, so be sure to do what it takes to make these visits more comfortable.

How can sedation dentistry help with dental anxiety?

Sedation dentistry helps you relax and feel more comfortable in the office. One option, called light sedation, involves taking prescription medication before treatment.

The medication might make you feel drowsy, but you’ll remain aware of your surroundings and be able to respond to your dentist throughout your visit. You’ll need to have someone with you to drive you home after your visit, as it takes a few hours for the effects to wear off fully.

Nitrous oxide is a popular sedation option that uses an odorless and colorless gas to create a deep sense of calm. Your dentist simply places a mask over your nose. As you breathe in, the effects begin almost immediately. 

Once your treatment is complete, your dentist removes the mask. One of the benefits of nitrous oxide is how quickly the effects wear off. You’ll feel like yourself in no time and be ready to continue with the rest of your day. 

If you’re ready to learn more, call WA Dental to book a visit. You’re also welcome to request an appointment through our website.