Are you one of the millions of Americans who avoids the dentist out of anxiety or fear? Dental anxiety is far more common than you might think. Studies suggest that between 9 and 15 percent of Americans will avoid their dentist out of anxiety, even when something is wrong with their teeth. Fortunately, there is a service designed to alleviate anxiety during dental visits called sedation dentistry.

North Atlanta Aesthetic Dentistry proudly offers sedation dentistry to our patients around Atlanta. Don’t let anxiety keep you from visiting your dentist any longer. Dr. Gurley and our experienced team will help you feel calm and relaxed for your dental appointment. Before calling our Alpharetta, GA office, learn more about how we can use sedation dentistry to fight dental anxiety.

What is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety affects about 30 to 40 million Americans. The signs and symptoms of anxiety range from person to person. But some common symptoms of dental anxiety include: a general uneasiness when it comes time for an appointment, exaggerated thoughts and feelings towards visiting the dentist, or unfounded worries and fears.

Dental anxiety can become dangerous when people begin to actively avoid the dentist for routine checkups, cleanings, or necessary maintenance. For example, those with dental anxiety are at an increased risk for gum disease. Without having your teeth professionally cleaned every 6 months, plaque can build up and lead to periodontal disease like gingivitis.

Avoiding the dentist can also allow damaged teeth to worsen. Cavities can grow larger and more unbearable if they’re not properly treated by your dentist. There can also be cosmetic downsides, like discolored or obviously damaged teeth, making it harder to feel truly confident in your smile.

Sedation Dentistry With North Atlanta Smiles

Fortunately, with sedation dentistry, we can provide comfort to those who would otherwise choose to avoid the dentist. At North Atlanta Aesthetic Dentistry we offer two types of sedation dentistry to help our patients feel relaxed:

• Oral Conscious Sedation: Oral conscious sedation involves taking pills before your appointment with Dr. Gurley, so that when it’s time for your appointment, you’ll already feel cool, calm and relaxed.
• Nitrous Oxide: Nitrous oxide is the classic dental sedative. For sedation dentistry, you’ll be administered a dose that you’ll inhale through a mask. One of the nice things about the nitrous oxide is that the effects wear off quickly, so oftentimes you’d be able to drive yourself home from your appointment.

Interested in Our Sedation Dentistry Service?

Do you experience dental anxiety? If you’re interested in our sedation dentistry, you can call us at 770-664-1244. You can also contact us here.