Sedation dentistry is one of the best methods dentists use to help people overcome their dental phobia. However, many people aren't afraid of the dentist but of falling asleep during the procedure. They're not alone, as this fear (known as hypnophobia) is a common problem that makes sedation dentistry very difficult. Here is what should be known about this problem and how to overcome it.
A Look At Hypnophobia
Hypnophobia is a complex fear that is caused by the unconscious mind. For some reason, the mind has linked sleeping with negative conditions, typically caused by some type of trauma. For example, those who were asleep during a disaster may link sleep to trauma and unconsciously fear it. Rapid breathing, sweating, feelings of dread, and shortness of breath are all common symptoms of this condition. It is a difficult problem to treat, and it can make sedation dentistry nearly impossible.
There's No Reason To Fear: Sedation Dentistry Uses Safe Methods To Sleep
Understanding the methods used to put people to sleep during sedation dentistry may help calm fears. There are a few different ways that the best dentists help patients fall asleep during oral surgery. Each of these methods is safe and adjustable to suit individual needs. They include:
- Inhaled sedation – this involves breathing a small level of nitrous oxide to minimally sedate and is often a good choice for those who are terrified of sleep
- Oral sedation – uses a pill, such as Halcion, to make people very drowsy and put them to sleep: the level of sedation can vary here, from slight sedation to complete sedation
- IV sedation – a small needle will be inserted into a vein to allow a quick sedation that is monitored continually throughout the procedure and which will be adapted according to individual needs
- Deep sedation – this is the type of sedation which may make those with hydrophobia the most afraid, as they'll be completely asleep; however, it is often necessary with lengthy and difficult procedures
Preparing For When Sedation Dentistry Is Necessary
There are many times when sedation dentistry is necessary (including during difficult implant procedures or lengthy and difficult surgeries), which means there may be no choice but to go through with it. Preparing for sedation dentistry requires taking a few steps to overcome the fear of sleep. Fear specialists have suggested that "exposure" therapy is the best way to manage it.
Exposure therapy is the act of someone experiencing that which terrifies them in order to acclimate to it. Talking to a dentist about receiving sedation treatments before surgery is a good way to understand what it will be like on the day of surgery. Several successful attempts will increase an individual's confidence about the procedure and slowly eliminate their fear.
By following these steps, it is possible to break through a fear of sleep and receive sedation dentistry successfully. The best dentists will understand this struggle and will work with hard in order to help their patients overcome it.
