
Jan
Patients who have anxiety disorder may not be able to sit comfortably through certain procedures. In Walnut Creek, California, Dr. Mark Wong works with his patients who have problems with anxiety to find personalized solutions that will put them at ease. Sedation dentistry is one of the most effective ways to control anxiety and get the dental care they need. Keeping his patients calm and relaxed is always his top priority.
For some patients, the different sounds they hear in the dentist’s office can trigger their anxiety. Bringing a set of headphones to their appointment will drown out the noises that make them most uncomfortable. While they are in the chair, they can listen to an audiobook or soothing music. Playing relaxing music that helps with meditation is a popular choice and will keep the patient calm and soothe their nerves.
Wearing comfortable clothing is a good first step if you want a patient to remain calm and relaxed during their appointment. Restrictive clothing can cause the patient to tense up, making it more difficult to relax. Comfortable clothing allows the patient to breathe easily and fully relax while the dentist is working on them. A loose-fitting sweatshirt and sweatpants are ideal for staying calm and relaxed.
Sedation dentistry isn’t for everyone. Your dentist will review your medical history and discuss your options. Depending on your procedure type, your dentist will determine what kind of sedation will work best for you. You may need to work with a surgeon if the procedure is extensive. However, a mild sedative could be needed for most procedures to get the patient through the experience.
The two primary types of sedation used in most dental offices are laughing gas and oral sedation. Laughing gas is a better choice for patients who need something to help them relax. Oral sedation, on the other hand, is much stronger and is better suited for patients who have severe anxiety. It allows them to relax more completely and gives them a chance to clear their thoughts. While it may not put them into a deep sleep, it will dull their reactions and lessen their anxiety.
No matter what type of sedation you use, it’s important to have someone bring you to your appointment. You may be extremely tired after your procedure, making driving difficult. Always err on the side of caution and let someone else drive.
The biggest problem most people have with sedation is feeling groggy afterward. If you live in Walnut Creek, CA, contact Mark A. Wong, DDS Family Dentistry. Dr. Wong and his staff do everything possible to keep their patients calm and comfortable. Reducing anxiety is their number one goal. Call (925) 678-5600 today to schedule your first consultation.
Connect with Mark Wong on LinkedIn
Dr. Mark Wong is a highly skilled dentist with over 15 years of experience who is dedicated to making dental visits comfortable and informative. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of California, Davis, and a DDS from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry. Dr. Wong is a member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. His commitment to community service is evident through his volunteer work with Give Kids a Smile and medical missions in Central America and the Philippines, highlighting his trustworthiness and dedication to care.