It's normal to feel a little anxious before your next dental appointment. But some people experience dread that prevents them from seeing a dentist for years.
They may even experience physical symptoms, such as sweating or nausea.
If this describes you, Dr. Yun wants you to know that there is hope.
We offer laughing gas, oral (pill) sedation, and IV sedation in our office. That way, you can get the dental care you need to maintain a healthy smile for life.
Here's what else you need to know.
What is Dental Anxiety?
have harmful consequences. Although each occurs in a different way.
Anxiety is milder and causes general uneasiness. Phobia describes an intense fear or dread. If you think you suffer from either, you should talk to our dentist.
Dr. Yun has experience helping patients like you overcome their fears. Communicating with our dentist will only lead to more trust and comfort.
Also, please know that you're not alone. Between have dental anxiety or fear that prevents them from seeing a dentist.
If you feel apprehensive about going to the dentist, please let Dr. Yun know your feelings. Dental anxiety is more common than most people realize.
Laughing Gas
Dr. Yun can give you laughing gas to help you relax. We can use laughing gas for any procedure, including your next teeth cleaning.
Before we begin, we’ll place a small mask over your nose that supplies nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen.
Laughing gas works within a couple of minutes and is quick to wear off once we remove the mask.
Unlike other types of sedation dentistry, you’ll be able to drive yourself home. Likewise, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to return to work or school after your appointment with us.
Laughing gas is safe for patients of all ages, including children.
Oral (Pill) Sedation
For more serious cases of dental fear, Dr. Yun may recommend oral sedation.
Before your appointment, Dr. Yun will write a prescription for an oral sedative. You'll need to take the pill as directed by our doctor and arrange for someone to drive you to your appointment. You'll also need someone to drive you home.
You may fall asleep under oral sedation. But we can gently shake you awake during the procedure if we need you to cooperate with our dentist. For example, Dr. Yun may need you to tilt your head so he can better access a tooth.
IV Sedation
We reserve IV sedation for the worst cases of dental phobia. Dr. Yun may also recommend IV sedation if you need a lot of intensive dental work in one appointment.
Patients who need IV sedation will need to arrange for someone to drive them to and from our office. You'll also need to take the rest of the day off to recover from the anesthesia.
Dr. Yun will give you specific care instructions to follow after your appointment.
Request an Appointment With Us
Dr. Yun understands that dental anxiety is a real fear. As such, he'll be more than happy to answer your questions and help put your mind at ease.
Ready to schedule an appointment with our Grand Rapids dentist? Please call the NorthPointe Family Dental & Implant Center at (616) 288-6134. You may also fill out our online contact form.
This blog post has been updated.