Dental Anxiety and Phobia
Solutions for Overcoming Dental Fear
Wisteria Dental Care can help you get the care you need.
Dental Anxiety is Not Uncommon
In fact, some studies show that up to 75% of Americans experience some level of dental related fear and 20% avoid dental care because of it. If you have a fear of dental work, we want you to know that making you feel comfortable and safe at our office is our first priority.
Dental Anxiety vs. Dental Phobia
Dental anxieties and phobias present themselves in a wide variety of ways, and specific fears vary from person to person. Dental anxiety may be mild to moderate, and often takes the form of a general sense of worry and apprehension when thinking about an upcoming procedure. Dental phobia is a more intense experience, with patients feeling an overwhelming, irrational fear of dental work. This can sometimes cause them to avoid care all together.
We Can Help!
Whatever your individual level of anxiety may be, our office is committed to making sure that your visit is as comfortable, quick and easy as possible. There are many solutions for dental anxiety, and we are ready to help.
Communication:
Informing us as to what you are afraid of is a great place to start. Often we can quell a fear simply by giving you correct or updated information. We will always keep you informed before, during and after your procedure, making sure that you understand what is going on and why we are doing it.
Calming Techniques:
Many patients find it helpful to practice controlled breathing or to find distraction inside the room.
Listening to Music:
With most procedures, the use of personal headphones and music is allowed. This is a great way to keep calm and pass the time while in the chair.
Taking Breaks:
Let us know if you would like to take a short break during your treatment by signaling with your left hand.
Ask us about our Comfort Menu!
Nitrous Oxide
Laughing Gas
Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe.
Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide.
The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.
The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.
There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide
The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.
There is no after effect such as a “hangover”.
Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide analgesia is generally safe for many patients, but certain conditions can make it contraindicated. Absolute contraindications include pneumothorax, recent retinal surgery with intraocular gas bubble, middle ear surgery, and severe pulmonary hypertension. Relative contraindications include respiratory conditions like COPD, severe psychiatric disorders, and potential for vitamin B12 deficiency).
Absolute Contraindications:
Pneumothorax:
Nitrous oxide expands air-filled spaces, which can worsen a pneumothorax (collapsed lung).
Recent Retinal Surgery with Intraocular Gas Bubble:
Nitrous oxide can cause the intraocular gas bubble to expand, potentially damaging the retina.
Middle Ear Surgery:
Similar to retinal surgery, nitrous oxide can expand air in the middle ear and cause complications.
Severe Pulmonary Hypertension:
Nitrous oxide can increase pulmonary artery pressure, which can be dangerous for patients with severe pulmonary hypertension.
Severe Psychiatric Disorders:
Nitrous oxide can cause hallucinations and is generally avoided in patients with severe psychiatric conditions.
Relative Contraindications:
Respiratory Conditions:
Patients with conditions like COPD, severe asthma, or other breathing difficulties may experience worsening of their condition with nitrous oxide.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency:
Nitrous oxide can interfere with vitamin B12 metabolism, potentially exacerbating a deficiency. Patients with known B12 deficiency or those at risk (e.g., vegans, those with malabsorption issues) should be carefully evaluated.
Recent Opioid Use:
Opioids can depress respiration, and combining them with nitrous oxide could further increase the risk of respiratory complications.
Impaired Consciousness:
Nitrous oxide is not recommended for patients who are unable to follow instructions or cooperate with the procedure.
Pregnancy (First Trimester):
While generally considered safe for short exposures, it's often avoided in the first trimester due to potential impact on vitamin B12 metabolism.
Severe Cardiac Disease:
Caution is advised due to the potential for increased pulmonary artery pressure and the involvement of methionine synthase (a vitamin B12 dependent enzyme) in cardiac function.