Dental anxiety can make even the simplest dental appointment stressful for you and your family. That’s why many dental practices offer sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry uses nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”) to help create feelings of calm, reducing fear and allowing the patient to relax. But despite its benefits, there are many misconceptions about it. If you’re interested in sedation for you or your child, here are a few common myths you needn’t worry about!
It’s Only for Major Procedures
You don’t need to have major oral surgery to benefit from sedation dentistry. Nitrous oxide can be used during any dental appointment, from a semi-annual exam to a root canal or filling.
It’s Only for Adults
Nitrous oxide can be used on patients of all ages, including children. It can even be safely used on patients with medical conditions like asthma and high blood pressure.
It Puts You to Sleep
Nitrous oxide is not intended to put you to sleep. It is administered through a nose mask and takes about five minutes to start working, providing a relaxed, peaceful feeling that wears off within about five minutes of discontinuing.
It Causes Weird Side Effects
Sure, it may be called laughing gas, but that doesn’t mean you will be overtaken by uncontrollable giggles. You will feel much more relaxed, but you’ll still have complete control of your body and mind. It also doesn’t act as a “truth serum” and won’t make you confess your darkest secrets to your dentist, either!
It’s Addictive
While any type of medication can be abused, nitrous oxide is not addictive, and you will not receive enough gas during your procedure that you should experience any addiction or withdrawal symptoms following your appointment.
If you or your child experiences dental anxiety, there is a solution. Sedation dentistry can help create feelings of calm so you can relax enough to get through your appointment without fear. Don’t let stress and worries keep you and your family from a successful oral health appointment. Speak to your dentist about the benefits of sedation dentistry today.
About Our Practice
At Indy Dental Group, our seven convenient locations want to help give you and your family the best oral health experience ever. If you or someone you love suffers from dental anxiety, speak to our dental team about sedation dentistry.
To schedule an appointment with any of the skilled, compassionate dentists at Indy Dental Group, please visit our website today!