Overcoming Coronavirus-Related Dentist Anxiety with Sedation Dentistry  

With the COVID-19 pandemic adding extra stress to our lives, everyday activities, appointments and the like, are no longer run-of-the-mill.

Even going to the dentist poses challenges for patients, from heightened safety concerns to an uptick in anxiety for those who are already not the biggest fans of sitting in the dentist’s chair.

These fearful feelings are understandable, and here at Lifetime Dental Health, we’re here for you. It’s important that you have peace of mind as well as a clear understanding of how we’re making your dental visit as safe and secure as possible. It’s our pleasure to care for our patients like they are family. 

How Is Lifetime Dental Health Keeping The Facilities Safer?

First and foremost, know that we are abiding by all recommendations by officials as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA) to maintain a sanitary and infection-free environment for our staff and patients. We adhere to strict sanitization and disinfection procedures, as your health and safety is our top priority. It always has been, always will be. 

We clean all dental tools and equipment thoroughly all day and especially between patients. All surfaces are disinfected regularly. Staff is trained in all cleanliness procedures and processes, and wear gloves and shields for added protection. There are no cutting corners when it comes to strict sanitation practices here at Lifetime Dental Health. 

I Want To See The Dentist, But I Have Doubts.

We completely understand that patients still have serious fears during this unprecedented time in history. And it may cause some people to avoid seeing the dentist. This option may seem easy, but in the scheme of things, there’s a far better solution. You can still see us, with added measures to make your visit more manageable. 

We want to make your visit to Lifetime Dental Health as comfortable and stress-free as possible. That’s where sedation dentistry comes in. With peace of mind and a relaxed atmosphere, patients can get the dental treatments they need without added pressure or problems due to anxiety. 

What Are My Options In Terms Of The Types Of Sedation Dentistry?

Here at Lifetime Dental Health, we offer our patients two types of sedatives, each which work while the patient is awake, but will feel just a bit groggy while under the influence. No needles!

We suggest either an oral sedative which we’ll prescribe pre-appointment, taken shortly before the exam or procedure, or nitrous oxide (aka “laughing gas”) which is given to the patient immediately before we get to work.

Both options ease anxiety and allow the patient to sit through their dental exam or procedure without unnecessary worry or panic. The sedatives will wear off soon after we are finished, although we recommend that patients do not drive themselves home post-visit, as an added precaution. Please organize a pick-up from someone trusted, or rely on public transportation.

Who Might Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is helpful in a number of scenarios. We recommend it for those patients who:

•   Are fearful of seeing the dentist
•   Stress out while in the environment of a dentist’s office
•   Feel anxious in relation to the smells, sounds, and equipment in a dentist’s office
•   Have a sensitive/highly reactive gag reflex
•   Are not susceptible to local anesthetic
•   Have sensitive or painful gums and teeth
•   Need extensive dental work which may require a lengthy visit
•   Desire a more comfortable experience overall

Coronavirus – It’s Affecting Many Areas Of Life

Perhaps you have never had an issue with visiting the dentist in the past, but the current COVID-19 climate has you on edge. Do not hesitate to get a little help making it through your dental visit by requesting sedation dentistry. It is a far better alternative than skipping your appointment, as this can lead to complications down the road, affecting your oral and overall health potentially. Plus, when you are in the dentist’s chair, we monitor your health and progress while under the influence of the sedative, so rest assured that you’re in good hands.

Sedation dentistry is safe and effective, and have lead to countless patients having satisfactory dental visits. There’s no need to deal with stress when it can be successfully eliminated from the equation. 

Please Contact Us With Questions, Concerns, Or To Book Your Next Appointment

Do you have any questions or concerns about sedation dentistry at Lifetime Dental Health? We’re ready to address anything you would care to discuss prior to your dental appointment.

To schedule an appointment at Lifetime Dental Health, please contact us at 614-333-9498.

We are seeing new and current patients by appointment. Stay healthy, safe, and secure.