The latest Simply Health initiated study has revealed a few interesting statistics that shed light on how adults in the UK view visits to the dentist. The golden rule as indicated by dental professionals on dental visits, is to keep at least one check-up appointment every two years (the more regular check-ups, the better it is for the patient’s dental health). The study’s findings revealed a startling fact – fear of the dentist is more common than one would think. 36% of respondents admitted that dental phobia is the leading reason they avoid seeing a dentist.
The same study also looked into the factors that ranked highly for patients. A whopping 89% of participants said that trust in the dental practitioner is important. This emphasis on trust brings into focus the ways a dental clinic can foster trust with patients. One way is to ease the anxiety levels of patients when seeking dental care. More and more dental clinics are offering safe sedation dentistry in Edinburgh. This is an add-on service that is dedicated to alleviating a patient’s fear, stress and anxiety when sitting in the dental chair. Sedation techniques largely comprise of inhalation sedation and intravenous injection. The Oral Health Foundation advises that patients seek the advice of the dental practitioner when considering relaxation technique options.
Common questions asked by patients
What are the common sedation techniques used in the dental industry?
Generally there are four types of sedation dental practitioners can use to help patients relax during treatments.
- nitrous oxide (inhalation)
- oral sedatives
- general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation or sleep dentistry
- local anaesthetics
It is highly advisable for patients to do their research into the different types of techniques offered, as well as the pros and cons of each as certain side-effects, such as allergic reactions, may apply.
Who should consider sedation medication?
Patients who avoid dental treatment because of fear of discomfort, or they’ve had a previous traumatic experience, or feel heightened sensitivity in oral nerves may benefit from sedation medication.
What dental treatments can sedation techniques be used for?
Dental practitioners often use sedation techniques for the following dental procedures: root canal procedures, tooth extractions and tooth restorative procedures such as dental implants, as a surgical procedure is a critical part of the treatment. Dental procedures where sedation is not applicable include X-rays and professional deep cleanings.
How do sedation techniques work and what preparation is needed?
All sedation techniques are oriented towards helping patients feel relaxed. Depending on the method used, patients may even fall asleep. Techniques like inhalation do not require patients to do anything before treatment whereas a dental practitioner may ask a patient not to consume food or drink before a procedure if intravenous sedation is used.
How safe is sedation medication?
The risks associated with sedation techniques are very low and adverse reactions are unlikely. This will be discussed by the dental practitioner during the consultation appointment. A contributing factor that will influence a patient’s suitability for a particular sedation technique is their medical history.
With the availability of numerous techniques used in the dental industry to ease patient’s fears and anxieties, there is no more reason to put off that dental check-up or much needed dental care. Schedule an appointment at your dental practitioner for more information.
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