Sedation Dentistry
Welcome to Tomlinson Family Dental, your trusted dental practice in Roosevelt, UT, where we prioritize your comfort and provide exceptional dental care. We understand that many patients experience dental anxiety or fear, which can make dental visits a stressful experience. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry as a safe and effective solution for a relaxed and anxiety-free dental experience. Our experienced dentists, Dr. Flint Tomlinson and Dr. Heston Farnsworth are skilled in administering various sedation techniques to ensure your comfort throughout your dental treatment.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using sedative medications to help patients relax and remain calm during dental procedures. It is ideal for individuals with dental phobia, anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or those requiring extensive or complex dental treatments. Sedation dentistry can help you overcome your fears, ensuring you receive dental care without unnecessary stress or discomfort.
What is the Difference Between Dental Anxiety and Dental Phobia?
Dental anxiety and dental phobia are terms often used interchangeably, but they represent different levels of fear and apprehension related to dental visits.
Dental anxiety refers to a feeling of unease or nervousness that some individuals experience before or during dental appointments. It is a common condition and can vary in intensity from mild to moderate. The anxiety may stem from various factors, such as fear of pain, needles, or a negative past dental experience. People with dental anxiety may feel restless, have difficulty sleeping the night before a dental visit, or feel anxious while sitting in the dental chair. However, individuals with dental anxiety can still undergo dental treatment with the help of supportive dental professionals and techniques such as communication, relaxation strategies, and local anesthesia.
On the other hand, dental phobia is an intense and irrational fear of dental procedures or dental care itself. It is more severe than dental anxiety and can lead to extreme avoidance of dental visits, even if it means neglecting one’s oral health. People with dental phobia may experience panic attacks, intense fear, or even physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, or feeling faint at the mere thought of visiting the dentist. Dental phobia can be deeply rooted in past traumatic experiences, and overcoming it may require specialized treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, gradual desensitization, or the use of sedation dentistry.
Our Sedation Dentistry Services
At Tomlinson Family Dental, we offer a range of sedation options to cater to individual needs and preferences. Our dentists will evaluate your dental condition, medical history, and anxiety levels to determine the most suitable sedation technique for you. Here are some sedation options we provide:
Laughing Gas:
Laughing gas is a safe and mild sedative inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose. It induces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria, helping you remain calm during dental procedures. It wears off quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home after the appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation:
Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative pill before your appointment. This medication induces a deeper state of relaxation, and although you will remain conscious, you will likely have little to no memory of the dental procedure. If you choose this sedation option, it is important to have a responsible adult accompany you to and from your appointment.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation:
Intravenous sedation is administered through an IV line, allowing the dentists to control the sedation level precisely. IV sedation provides a deeper state of relaxation and is suitable for patients with severe anxiety or those undergoing complex dental procedures. Our experienced team will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.
Sedation Dentistry in Roosevelt, UT
Experience Comfortable Dental Care with Sedation Dentistry at Tomlinson Family Dental, where everyone deserves a positive dental experience. With our compassionate approach and personalized care, we strive to make your dental experience positive and anxiety-free. Contact us today to get started!
