Dentophobia causes increased stress and nervousness with dental visits and keeps many people from receiving the oral health care they need. Dental neglect due to dentophobia can result in excruciating teeth pain and oral health issues if not addressed in a timely manner. Learn more about our treatment plans available to manage dentophobia and how our anxiety-free sensory options and sedation dentistry solutions ensure our patients are completely comfortable.
The Scary Truth of Dental Neglect
Avoiding the dentist due to dental fear is not uncommon. In fact, Healthline estimates 2.7 percent of men and 4.6 percent of women have dentophobia. The condition can be tied to painful or uncomfortable past experiences or present concerns regarding deteriorating oral health. Unresolved dental issues can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Once plaque bacteria has affected the root surface of teeth, it lacks the hard-protective enamel coating necessary to protect it from decay. Bad bacteria thriving in the mouth can then lead to demineralisation and weakened enamel causing cavities or tooth decay. When left untreated, these oral health issues can worsen.
Oral Health Solutions for Dental Confidence
Dental hygiene and routine oral health and wellness checkups are imperative for healthy teeth and gums. We offer a complete range of dentistry services and are committed to offering the finest oral health care possible using the latest dental technology in a soothing environment. Patients who are good candidates for sedation dentistry will be offered options based on the type of appointment they have scheduled.
Sleep Dentistry and Sedation Options
Three Rivers Dental Group offers a variety of sedation dentistry techniques to make dental visits pleasant, comfortable and anxiety-free. Different levels of sedation from mild to moderate can be used depending on a patient’s needs. Before administering any sedative, our doctors review each patient’s personal medical and dental history to select the best option, including:
- Oral Sedation: Offered in pill form for minimal anxiety and pain relief, usually taken one hour before a dental procedure. Dosage fluctuates based on the dental procedure being delivered. Some patients may feel drowsy or fall asleep with this sedation type.
- Inhaled Minimal Sedation: Also known as laughing gas, inhaled minimal sedation helps dental patients relax. The calming effects of this sedation method wear off quickly following the dental procedure.
- IV Moderate Sedation: A fast-acting intravenous sedation method with adjustable levels administered by a dentist to help patients relax.
Anxious about an upcoming dental appointment? Rest assured you’re not alone. Patients often avoid scheduling regular dental checkups due to dentistry fear and dental examination anxiety. We’re here to help address dentophobia and provide sedation dentistry solutions tailored to every patient’s needs. Contact us today at 1 (855) 4 NO FEARS or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located throughout the Pittsburgh area in Cranberry, Greentree, Greensburg, and Jennerstown.