Do you suffer from dental anxiety? Dental anxiety and fear of the dentist are common reasons for deteriorating or poor oral health. Studies show that between 8% and 15% of Americans experience some form of anxiety when visiting the dentist. Dental anxiety is one of the dental concerns Dr. David Rever treats.
Avoiding the dentist for prolonged periods of time significantly increases the risk of developing a wide range of dental problems. These may include tooth decay, tooth damage, and gum disease. Left untreated, many minor concerns lead to bigger problems, such as tooth loss.
We understand your anxiety is real. Fortunately, we offer sedation dentistry to help nervous patients remain calm and relaxed.
Silver Spring dentist Dr. David Rever has over 30 years of experience offering personalized, compassionate dental care. Dr. Rever will take the time to meet with you and discuss your personal dental fears and concerns. Our dentist in Silver Spring, MD will also discuss any previous experiences in the dentist chair that have caused anxiety and stress.
As a team, we emphasize educating our patients on their oral health and all aspects of their dental care. A thorough understanding and explanation of dental treatments can relieve stress and make you feel confident during your visit.
Sedation Dentistry in Silver Spring
Dr. Rever offers dental sedation options for patients desiring to completely relax during their procedure. Depending on your preference and medical condition, options include oral sedation and nitrous oxide. We will discuss the pros and cons of each option before your visit.
- Oral conscious sedation: administered in pill form, oral sedation may include an at-home dose to begin the process. This type of sedation will require that you be escorted to and from your treatment.
- Nitrous oxide: also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is inhalation sedation that takes effect and wears off almost immediately. This enables patients to drive themselves to and from their appointment.
Dental Anxiety FAQs
Read answers to common questions about dental anxiety in our Silver Spring, MD, dental office:
How does oral sedation work?
The dentist will administer the oral sedation method before the procedure. You will then enter a calm and relaxed state. You will have little to no memory of the procedure but remain conscious the entire time. For some patients, this can help with more serious procedures, such as implant placement or receiving a restoration.
Oral sedation can also help anxious patients undergo more routine procedures, such as dental cleanings.
Will I be able to drive myself home?
No. You may remain groggy for an extended time once the procedure ends. You will need a friend or family member to bring you home, and you won’t be able to return to work or school that day. We will send any paperwork and aftercare information to the friend or family member bringing you home.
Can anyone receive oral sedation?
We will consider your medical history and current oral health before recommending any form of sedation. If you have any dental sedation questions, contact our office today. Avoiding treatment due to anxiety can increase the risk of tooth decay, dental infections, and even periodontal disease.
Who can’t get sedation?
Not everyone can safely receive dental sedation. We may not recommend sedation for patients who:
- Have severe heart problems
- Are allergic to the sedation medications
- Have breathing issues like severe asthma or sleep apnea
- Have uncontrolled diabetes
- Are obese
- Have some neurological conditions
- Are pregnant
- Take certain medications that could react badly with sedation
- Are too young or too old (age limits depend on health)
- Have had bad reactions to sedation before
If you can’t get sedation, our dentist can suggest other ways to help you feel comfortable during treatment.
Can I get sedation for dental cleanings?
Yes, you can get sedation for dental cleanings if you’re feeling anxious or nervous. We may recommend laughing gas because it offers the lightest sedation. Talk to our dentist about your concerns, and he can help choose the best option for you to make the cleaning more comfortable.
What can I do to feel more comfortable during my dental visit?
To feel more comfortable during your dental visit, there are a few things you can try:
- Talk to your dentist: Let us know if you’re feeling nervous or scared so we can explain what’s going to happen and help you feel more at ease.
- Bring a friend or family member: Having someone you trust with you can make you feel more relaxed.
- Practice deep breathing: Taking slow, deep breaths can help calm your nerves.
- Use a hand signal: Agree on a hand signal with your dentist to let them know if you need a break during the appointment.
Can I listen to music when I get dental care?
Yes, you can listen to music during your visit. It can help distract you and make you feel more relaxed. We welcome you to bring headphones or earphones so you can relax at your appointment.
What do I do if I haven’t been to a dentist in years?
We understand that some patients can feel anxious if they haven’t been to the dentist in a long time. If you haven’t been to a dentist in years, don’t worry! It’s never too late to start taking care of your teeth.
Call our office and explain that it’s been a while since your last visit. We’ll understand and help you feel comfortable. When your appointment time arrives, let our team know if you have any concerns or if you’re nervous. They can work with you to make the visit easier.
Our dentist will do a complete exam to check your teeth and gums. He might take X-rays to see what’s going on under the surface. A professional cleaning will remove any buildup of plaque or tartar and help keep your teeth healthy. If you have any dental issues, our dentist will create a plan to help improve your oral health over time.
Schedule A Dental Exam and Consultation Today
Have you been away from the dentist for some time? Are you suffering from poor oral health after a bad experience at the dentist? Dr. Rever works with patients one-on-one to restore a healthy, beautiful smile that will provide the best possible quality of life.
To schedule an appointment in our Silver Spring dentist office, contact us at (301) 637-0960 or request an appointment online.