Dentist Anxiety

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

08 Aug 2008 06:26 PM

There's been a lot of talk in my life about dentists lately... namely because a coworker at the cats-only boarding facility where I have a part time job just had a heck of a time having one of her wisdom teeth removed.

My coworker's rough time made me think of the rough time Heather had with her wisdom teeth:

• Dental Horror Story: The Wisdom in Teeth
• The Horror of Dental Insurance and Teeth
• Dental Horror Story: Going Back to School
• Dental Horror Story: The Happily Ever After Part

I was lucky that I had a very easy time of it when my wisdom teeth had to come out. But still, all these horror stories make me a little nervous about future dentist visits.

Let's face it. I'm a wimp when it comes to pain. That dentist or dental hygienist comes at me with something that looks pointy and I'm already cringing. I have receded gums in some places, and it can be VERY painful to get poked in those parts of my mouth! Ugh. Just thinking about it makes me shudder a little.

There's hope for wimps like me. It's called "sedation dentistry" or "comfort dentistry". The dental patient is lightly sedated (usually orally) before a cleaning or exam or dental procedure. The medications used for sedation help you stay calm and comfortable during the procedure... because anxiety can actually make pains seem worse.

I once had a cavity filled while on nitrous oxide -- "laughing gas". It was the easiest filling ever! I was relaxed and comfortable and the procedure passed quickly.

There are a few minor drawbacks to going the sedation dentistry route. You will need someone to drive you to and from the appointment. Your dentist visit will probably be more expensive, as you'll also be paying for the sedatives.

If you're not thrilled with the idea of turning to drugs to help you with your dental anxiety, there are other options. Studies have shown that distraction can be a great pain reliever! Look for a dentist who offers in-chair movies, games, or other forms of entertainment during your appointment. You don't just have to grin and bear it when it comes to dental anxiety.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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