Overcoming Dental Anxiety: Wisdom Teeth and Implant Procedures
If you suffer from anxiety regarding dental work, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Maybe people fear going to the dentist, especially when they hear the words “oral surgery.” Whether you’re getting dental implants or having wisdom teeth removed, the idea of oral surgery can be daunting. The team at the Center for Oral Surgery of Las Vegas strives to make sure our patients are comfortable and confident with their planned procedure, providing options to help ease their worries. Communication, education, and sedation can all help make the procedure a more stress-free experience. Keep reading to learn how you can take control of your worries to ensure a more comfortable dental procedure.
Tips For Relieving Dental Anxiety
Fear of the dentist can stem from a variety of reasons, including a fear of pain, needles, the unknown, or remnants from a past bad experience at another office. If you live with dental anxiety, these tips can help keep you relaxed both before and during your procedure:
- Communicate: If you’re feeling apprehensive about your upcoming oral surgery, let us know! Our team can talk you through every step of the procedure so you know exactly what to expect. We are happy to answer any questions and consider your anxiety as we plan for the big day.
- Breathe: If you’re feeling extremely stressed prior to the procedure, deep breathing and mindfulness techniques can help center you and calm your nervous system. Using slow, deep breaths inhale for four seconds, hold it for seven seconds, and then exhale to the count of 8. Focusing on your breathing can distract you from the procedure, lower your heart rate, and reduce stress.
- Prepare: Set yourself up for success by planning to bring items to make yourself more comfortable. Examples of this may include:
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- A small blanket for comfort.
- Sunglasses to block out the bright lights.
- Headphones to listen to your favorite music or a podcast for distraction and to help block out the sounds of dental tools.
Relaxation techniques can be effective for relaxing the body and calming the mind, but those with severe anxiety might be looking for more to help them get through their surgery.
How Sedation Dentistry Can Ease Oral Surgery Anxiety
For individuals looking for relief from their fear and anxiety, dental sedation is a safe and effective option. There are multiple options available to choose from:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Nitrous Oxide – more commonly known as laughing gas – is a mild sedative that is great for those with mild to moderate anxiety. It works through inhalation, providing a sense of calm while you remain fully awake and aware. It wears off immediately after removal, preventing lingering drowsiness.
- Oral Sedation: For a more deep relaxation, an oral sedative can be prescribed. This is taken before the procedure and will ease your mind while keeping you awake. It does take longer to wear off and will require someone to drive you home after the surgery.
- IV Sedation: For those with severe anxiety, a deeper form of sedation can be administered through an IV. While you will remain conscious during the procedure, you probably won’t remember much about it after.
- General Anesthesia: For complex oral surgeries – such as wisdom teeth removal or full-mouth implants – the Center for Oral Surgery of Las Vegas provides general anesthesia. While under general anesthesia, you will be completely unconscious and unable to feel, hear, or see anything. Since it’s a more intense sedation method, patients should expect to account for recovery time as well as have a responsible party drive them home once the procedure is complete.
Dr. Letelier and the team will help determine the best course of action based on your anxiety level and the complexity of your procedure, but you can feel confident there are plenty of options available for a more comfortable experience.
Schedule A Stress-Free Consultation at The Center for Oral Surgery of Las Vegas
Oral surgery can change your life, improving your appearance, oral health, and overall health. Don’t let your dental anxiety stop you from taking proper care of your teeth – avoiding treatment will only make the problems more severe. By incorporating relaxation techniques and choosing the right sedation option, removing your wisdom teeth, getting dental implants, or any other oral health surgery can be done with ease!
The Center of Oral Surgery of Las Vegas would be happy to answer any of your questions or concerns regarding your dental needs, including how we can make sure you’re comfortable during your treatment. Explore our dental insurance details and contact us today or call us at 702.367.6666 to schedule a consultation and take control of your oral health!
