Keep calm and brush on

For 8-year-old Tommy, a visit to the dentist is more of a nightmare than anything else with the metal tools shining in the dental light, the whirring sound of various tools and the feeling of being trapped in the chair. Tommy does not enjoy dental checkups, even though they are not meant to cause any harm but to help keep him healthy. Due to this fear, Tommy and many other people in the U.S. are not able to conquer their fears of the dentist and avoid the necessary checkups.

HELP CHILDREN GET THE DENTAL CARE THEY NEED

For the fictional example of Tommy and thousands of other people who struggle with dental anxiety, visiting a sedation dentist may be a beneficial choice. Fortunately, there are healthy sedation techniques for children and adults that help to relax patients during the procedure.

Mouthhealthy.org explains that “Several medications are available to help create more relaxed, comfortable dental visits,” adding that “Some drugs control pain, some help you relax, and others put you into a deep sleep during dental treatment.” It can be difficult for children to remain still for a long period of time, with or without dental anxiety. A child may just have difficulty remaining still long enough for the dentist to complete the treatment.

For these situations, a trained sedation dentist will help the child relax in a calm, controlled and healthy way. Depending on the type of procedure and condition of the patient, the dentist may use a specific form of sedation. Mouthehalthy.org lists some of these methods to include:

• Inhaling nitrous oxide
• Taking a pill orally
• Injecting it into the blood stream

Parents do not need to worry or be confused when taking their child to the appointment. Prior to the dental checkup, cleaning or procedure, a sedation dentist will go over all details of the procedure with the parent to make sure there are no misunderstandings. There are even other methods besides sedation and anesthetic that a parent can use to help a child prepare for a dental visit.

OTHER TIPS

A child may not need to go under heavy sedation unless the dental procedure requires it. In many cases, a dentist will give the child a small amount of anesthesia to relax the nerves. The focus of a sedation dentist is to not only help the patient relax but to help the patient see that a dentist only has the patient’s health in mind.

For patients of all ages with fears about visiting the dentist, there are a few other options to help the patient relax, along with sedation. Mouthhealthy.org states, “If you're tense or anxious, tell your dentist and the dental staff.” By talking with the dentist about the anxiety, he or she can recommend alternative treatment options, including sedation, to address the concerns. Parents do not need to keep quiet about their child’s fears or issues with the dentist and hope for the best.

Mouthhealthy.org also explains that parents can also “Choose a time for your dental visit when you're less likely to be rushed or under pressure.” The dentist will be able to help decide what times are available, but the child may prefer the morning or afternoon for the appointment. In other cases, if a child dislikes the sound of a dental drill, “bring headphones so you can listen to your favorite music,” mouthhealthy.org adds.

Speak to the child and decide which of these may help to calm the child down. A sedation dentist will be able to help the child relax and receive the necessary treatment. Call and schedule an appointment today.

MARK MELEVSKY DMD

At Mark Melevsky DMD in Marshfield, MA, we will customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule. Our professional staff creates a calm atmosphere for you during the appointment and treatment process. If you have any questions or are unsure of what is causing the pain in your teeth, do not hesitate to call us.

We will answer any questions and make sure you get all of the necessary information. We can help prevent damage to your teeth and set you on track for a lifetime of pristine oral health. At Mark Melevsky DMD, your experience with us and your dental health are our prime concern.