If the thought of going to the dentist makes you overwhelmingly nervous or frightened, you are not alone. Let’s face it, who really wants to go to the dentist? Those that do go realize that it is because the benefit of going outweighs the risks of not going. For some patients, dental anxiety is so extreme that it causes them to avoid the dentist altogether. As a matter of fact, statistics show that half of the people in the U.S. NEVER go to the dentist. Sadly, missing out on important dental check-ups and procedures just means that your oral health problems will grow more complicated and more expensive over time, making you more in need of a dentist than ever. And emergencies seem to always happen after hours or on a weekend when dentists are not available. Teeth problems do not get better on their own, they get worse. Teeth cannot heal. Even worse, there are conditions such as oral cancer and gum disease that do not hurt until it is too late.
Sedation dentistry can stop this frustrating cycle. If fear of the dentist has caused you to avoid teeth cleanings and dental exams, or if it has kept you from getting the cosmetic dentistry services you have always wanted, our experienced Hilton Head Island sedation dentistry team can help you relax in the dental chair.
Conscious Oral Sedation
Dr. Gross is pleased to offer safe and effective conscious oral sedation to our patients. Using prescribed medications that are taken prior to your appointment, this type of sedation puts you in a state of relaxation. You will still be conscious enough to respond to Dr. Gross’s directions, but you will likely remember very little about your actual procedure.
Sedation dentistry is extremely effective for a wide range of patients, and is usually recommended for those who have:
- A general fear of the dentist
- Difficulty getting numb
- A fear of needles
- An overactive gag-reflex
- A dislike of the sights or smells of medical offices
Sedation dentistry is helpful during longer, more complex procedures, but it is just as often used for routine treatments. During an initial consultation, Dr. Gross will take a look at your medical history and determine if you are a candidate for this service. By helping you conquer dental anxiety now, we can work together to improve and protect your smile for years to come.
If fear of the dentist has caused you to put off important dental care, please contact Dr. Timothy Gross today to schedule a sedation dentistry consultation. We serve patients in the Hilton Head Island and Bluffton areas of South Carolina.
