If you suffer from fear of the dentist, your dental health, and possibly your overall health, is most likely suffering. The good news is that you have options to feel more relaxed during your dental treatments, thanks to the affordability and accessibility of sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry is the term used to describe dentistry procedures that are performed while the patient is under the influence of sedative medications. These drugs work by inducing a state of calm relaxation in the patient, so that they are better able to tolerate an uncomfortable situation – in this case, a dental check-up or treatment procedure.

Sedation dentistry is a beneficial development, since it helps patients maintain healthy, beautiful teeth. Better oral well-being can also reduce the likelihood that you will develop some or any of the general chronic health conditions that have been linked to dental disease, such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes.

Recognizing the importance of great dental health and the benefits that sedation dentistry can offer their patients, more and more dentists are now offering sedation services. However, with such a wide choice of professionals to choose from, how do you know which sedation dentist is right for you?

Check their qualifications and training credentials

Standard dental training does not cover the use of sedation dentistry in any real detail, so for your dentist to be competent in this area, he/she will have needed to complete additional, specific training and gain the relevant certification. This will mean that they have proven that they are capable of administering and managing sedative medications to facilitate dental procedures.

Some of the most common training programs are taken via the American Dental Association (ADA) or the Dental Organization for Dental Sedation.

Ask about their experience

Experience is one of the most important aspects of choosing a great sedation dentist. While it is possible to learn techniques and procedures from a textbook, practical experience gives your dentist the skill and understanding to be able to apply the learned knowledge to a range of different circumstances.

Any good sedation dentist will be happy to talk to you about both their training and experience, and provide evidence or example where asked.

Are they up to date with industry developments?

Another sign of a committed and skilled sedation dentist is one that is up to date with the latest industry developments. Dental researchers and professionals work tirelessly to innovate, finding newer, safer techniques and tools with which to perform both functional and cosmetic dental treatments.

Ask your dentist if he/she is a member of any professional dental organizations, or if they attend seminars or conferences whereby they receive updates on the tools, techniques and best practises used in sedation dentistry.

Do they put you at ease?

A dentist can have all the qualifications and experience in the world, but if they don’t reassure you and connect with you when you meet with them, you are never going to feel truly relaxed in their care. A great bedside manner is just as important in dentistry as it is in medical care, and finding a great dentist that you can trust will make your patient experience much calmer, and less stressful.

Trust your instincts. If you don’t feel comfortable with a particular dentist, walk away and continue your search.

We understand the pressure that is felt by patients suffering with dental anxiety and are delighted to offer our professional, experienced sedation services to help alleviate your fears and help you feel at home at Vero Dental Spa. To find out more, please contact our friendly, reassuring team.