A trip to the dentist can be anxiety-inducing for many patients, especially those who suffer from stress and anxiety. This discomfort often prevents can deter individuals from seeking necessary dental care, potentially leading to more serious oral health issues. Fortunately for patients who are a bit antsy about getting into the dentist’s chair, sedation dentistry creates a calming, stress-free environment when it’s needed most!
Let's explore how stress and anxiety impact oral health and how sedation dentistry can help overcome these obstacles.
How Do Stress and Anxiety Affect Dental Health?
Stress and anxiety can significantly impact oral health in several ways:
- Teeth grinding and bruxism — Stress can lead to grinding or clenching of teeth, known as bruxism, which can cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This disorder can result in enamel wear, increased tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth, jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing and speaking.
- Neglected oral hygiene — Stress and anxiety can disrupt routines, leading to less frequent or meticulous brushing and flossing, and procrastinated dental visits. These habits increase the risk of bacterial buildup, causing plaque, tartar, gum disease, and tooth decay.
- Dry mouth — Stress can also lead to improper hydration, resulting in dry mouth, which can cause bad breath and tooth decay.
What Is Sedation Dentistry and How Does It Help?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to safely and effectively prevent anxiety and pain during dental procedures. Different types of sedation are administered in various ways:
- Nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”) — Administered through a mask, it helps patients relax during minor dental procedures.
- Prescription oral sedatives — Medications like Valium and Halcion, taken orally before a procedure, induce a higher level of relaxation.
An added benefit of sedation dentistry is that it allows dental professionals to perform procedures more effectively, as relaxed patients are often more cooperative and responsive to verbal cues.
Anxiety-Free Dental Care With Sedation Dentistry in Champaign, IL
If you’re in Champaign and want to learn more about how sedation dentistry can reduce the stress and anxiety of dental procedures, contact Dr. Scott Anderson and the friendly and knowledgeable Anderson Dental team to schedule a consultation!