How Dentists Can Help Ease Your Anxieties

According to the National Institutes of Health, it is estimated that 36% of people struggle with dental anxiety or dental fear, while another 12% struggle with extreme dental fear. This anxiety — called dentophobia — can create a significant barrier to a patient’s oral health.

At Vivid Dental, we understand that this fear is genuine. That is why Dr. Monti Harpalani and our team specialize in painless dental care. We use specialized techniques for administering a local anesthetic, which is done slowly to reduce discomfort and make the process stress-free. These treatments include:

Nitrous oxide: Usually known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedation options for both children and adults at the dentist. The gas is administered via a breathing mask that patients inhale. It helps patients feel at ease and provides an almost euphoric feeling. Most patients can also drive themselves home and continue with their day after treatment with laughing gas.

Intravenous (IV) sedation: IV sedation occurs when anti-anxiety drugs are administered via your blood system before dental treatment. It is also called “twilight” dentistry and helps you feel relaxed, but you are not totally under. A needle must be inserted through a vein in your hand or arm to administer the drug. It is a good sedation option when you need multiple procedures performed, including root canals, extractions, and implant placements.

General anesthesia: General anesthesia is a deep state of unconsciousness where you will be asleep during the entire procedure. It requires special equipment and a trained anesthesiologist to administer. This painless dentistry option is suitable for patients with extreme fears, patients with special healthcare needs such as Autism, and patients that have extensive amounts of treatment to be performed.

Are you looking for Painless Dental Treatment in Houston, Texas?

If you have a fear of the dentist, Dr. Monti Harpalani and the team at Vivid Dental are here to provide you the comfort you need during treatment. Contact our office today at 281-809-4902 to learn more about our painless dental care options or make an appointment.