For many people going to the dentist can bring up some very legitimate concerns and fears. However, avoiding dental care completely can be very detrimental-especially when dental health begins to deteriorate. Compounding both of these situations does not have to be your reality.

Dental anxiety is real but can be overcome.

Sedation dentistry is designed to minimize the fear or anxiety from going to the dentist. Anxiety free or relaxation dentistry is the term associated with methods designed to minimize the fear of going to the dentist. Sometimes referred to as, “gentle dentistry,” these methods are utilized by compassionate and caring dental care professionals to help the patient overcome fears.

Oral Sedation Dentistry can improve the dental experience for people who:

• Experience high dental anxiety and/or fear of the dentist
• Have a severe gag reflex
• Posses physical limitations (for example, those suffering from back and neck problems)
• Require extensive treatments (like a full set of porcelain veneers, root canals)

Oral Sedation Methods may vary depending on your individual needs.

There are many different forms of oral sedation. These may include a pill taken prior to the appointment to help relax or medications delivered during the appointment. There are also various relaxation methods that can be utilized depending on your unique situation.

The first step in this process is to see a qualified dentist who can assess your individual needs and determine how much sedation and what type is best for you and the work you are having done. You will also need to have a responsible caregiver provide transportation to you after the appointment (in some cases it may be a good idea to have this responsible caregiver bring you to the appointment).  It is also recommended to have this same person stay with you for an additional two to four hours after the appointment.

Dr. Asadi can work with you to address your individual needs and help you cope with fear, anxiety or whatever your unique situation allows. She is a general dentist practicing general dentistry and sedation dentistry in Chandler, Arizona. She is also qualified to provide implants and cosmetic procedures.