I have an absolutely horrendous fear of the dentist. It didn’t help that when I went in this past week, the dentist tortured me. Now I find out I have to have two teeth pulled. I told him I’d get back with him. Is there a way I can have this done at a hospital under anesthesia?
Melissa M. – Little Rock, AR
Melissa,
You are not alone in your fear or mistrust of the dentist. Many patients suffer the same anxiety and experiences you’ve had. While there are hospitals where dentists come in and put patients under general anesthesia, this is a very expensive option. I want to let you know all your options, that will be pain free, and let you choose what will work best for your situation.
Many dentists perform sedation dentistry services. They’ll usually have something on their website that says they’re a sedation dentist somewhere in the menu. Some of the options available are more expensive than others. All of them will give you a pain free appointment. Here is a breakdown:
Oral Sedation:
- You’re awake but sedated. However, you are not likely to remember the procedure.
- Most dentist offer other medications with oral sedation like anti-anxiety drugs, tranquilizers, depressants, or nitrous oxide.
- This is the least expensive sedation option.
IV Sedation:
- Quicker recovery time after surgery.
- You are conscious and can answer questions if needed during surgery.
- This suppresses a sensitive gag reflex.
- It is easier to regulate the dosage, so it can be increased or decreased as needed.
- You’re much more sedated than when using oral sedation.
General Anesthesia:
- This is an induced state of unconsciousness.
- You will have no reflex or muscle control.
- You will be unable to respond to questions.
- A tube will need to be placed in your airway for breathing.
- You will be drowsy after the procedure.
- This is the most risky and most expensive of the procedures.
This blog is brought to you by Seattle Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Brian McKay, DDS.
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