For many people, a visit to their general dentist is fraught with anxiety and unease. This is understandable, especially when there is a possibility that you may have to undergo an invasive surgical procedure. When anxiety causes patients to avoid the dentist, it helps them increase their chances of developing a plethora of oral hygiene issues. If you need to visit the dentist but find that you are paralyzed by anxiety, you may want to consider visiting a specialist in sedation dentistry in Nashville, TN. Here is some information that can help you decide whether or not this revolutionary procedure is an option you are willing to try.

Causes of Anxiety

Sedation dentistry is a wonderful solution for patients experiencing dental anxiety, but many people cannot seem to pinpoint where this anxiety stems from. There are many situations and thought patterns that can cause dental anxiety, but here are some of the most common:

• Overactive gag reflex
• Prior unpleasant dental experiences
• Heightened sensitivity to noise and sights
• Physical sensitivity

If you have dealt with or are dealing with any of these issues, sedation dentistry may be just what you need the next time you visit us.

Types of Sedation Methods

There are many methods a general dentist may use during the sedation process, and depending on your personal experiences, some may seem more favorable than others.  At the office of Dr. James R Pace we offer the following sedation options:

• Nitrous Oxide – Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a special mask, causing the patient to experience a prolonged sense of calm.
• Local Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is topically applied to a specific area of the body, causing  nerve cells to lose their sensory functions.
• Oral Sedation – Oral sedation requires a patient to ingest a drug orally and the patient remains conscious.
• IV Sedation – IV Sedation renders a patient completely unconscious during the procedure.

Beat Your Anxiety

When you undergo sedation dentistry in Nashville, TN, the stress and fear associated with dental visits and procedures will usually be much less noticeable. For more information about sedation dentistry, please contact Dr. Pace at (615) 653-4555.