Overcoming Dental Fear with Sedation Dentistry
Many people are so fearful of visiting the dentist that they delay or avoid care altogether. At Cary Implant and General Dentistry, we have a lot of compassion for individuals who struggle with dental anxiety, and we don’t want it to get in the way of a healthy smile. That’s why we offer safe, effective sedation options designed to help you feel calm and comfortable during your treatment.
Whether you need a routine procedure or more complex care, sedation dentistry can make your experience significantly more relaxed.
Understanding Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety can stem from many sources, including past experiences, fear of pain, sensitivity to sounds or smells, or anxiety about complex procedures. You’re not alone, and you’re not judged. Our team takes your concerns seriously and works with you to create a treatment plan that prioritizes both your comfort and your oral health.
Sedation Options at Cary Implant and General Dentistry
We offer multiple sedation solutions based on your needs, comfort level, and the type of procedure you’re having.
Oral Sedation for Mild to Moderate Anxiety
For patients who feel nervous but don’t require deep sedation, the doctor can prescribe anti-anxiety medication for you to take before your appointment. You will remain awake, but deeply relaxed during the procedure. It’s an easy, non-invasive way to help you feel calmer.
IV Sedation for Complex Procedures
For patients undergoing more involved treatments, such as wisdom teeth removal or other surgical procedures, we offer IV sedation. An experienced anesthesiologist visits our office to administer it, ensuring the highest level of safety and monitoring throughout your procedure. IV sedation allows you to remain deeply relaxed, and many patients remember little to nothing about their appointment afterward.
What to Expect After Sedation
After your procedure, it’s normal to feel drowsy, groggy, or tired as the sedation wears off—especially with IV sedation. For your safety, you’ll need a trusted adult to drive you home, and we recommend that you rest for the remainder of the day. Our team will provide clear, personalized aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Avoiding driving, working, or making important decisions for 24 hours
- Eating soft foods and staying hydrated
- Taking prescribed or recommended medications as directed
- Monitoring for any unusual symptoms and knowing when to call us
Most patients feel back to normal by the next day, though recovery time can vary depending on the type of sedation and procedure performed.
A Calm, Compassionate Approach to Care
You deserve dental care that feels safe, supportive, and comfortable. If dental fear has been holding you back, sedation dentistry may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Many patients find that sedation helps them rebuild trust in dental visits and maintain consistent oral health care moving forward. We will take the time to listen, explain your options, and help you choose the sedation method that’s right for you.
Contact us today to learn more about sedation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
