Dental Anxiety & Sedation Dentistry – Answering Your FAQs

If you have dental anxiety or are nervous about an upcoming appointment, Dr. Darrah of Buckwalter Dental Care can help with his friendly, communicative approach to dentistry and our sedation options. At our office, we offer “laughing gas” as well as pill-based, oral sedation.

Our team focuses on providing expert dental care in a comfortable environment and keeping you well-informed about your treatment. Have questions about sedation and dental anxiety? Here are a few frequently asked questions and their answers to help put you at ease:

How Do I Know If I Have Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is far from uncommon. Somewhere between 9-20% of Americans experience dental anxiety that is strong enough to keep them from visiting a dentist for necessary care.   

Anxiety can range from a very minor feeling of nervousness to a more severe form that can make patients feel physically sick. No matter how severe or minor your dental anxiety may be, the team at Buckwalter Dental Care can help. We will do everything we can to make you feel calm and comfortable during your treatment.

Can I Be Sedated During Any Procedure?

Yes! We’re happy to offer sedation for most dental procedures. Simply ask Dr. Darrah or our team when making your appointment, and we’ll let you know if you can be sedated during your appointment.

Can I Be Sedated If I Don’t Have Dental Anxiety?

Even if a patient doesn’t have dental anxiety, there are other reasons that some opt for sedation dentistry. If you are scared of needles used for administering numbing agents during routine dental procedures, or if you don’t like dental drills, sedation dentistry is a way to avoid these fearful feelings.

A sensitive gag reflex is another reason that some patients choose sedation. And, even if you don’t have dental anxiety, fear, or a sensitive gag reflex, sedation can help you get through a long appointment and feel more comfortable.

Can I Drive Myself Home After My Appointment?

Only if you are sedated with laughing gas. The powerful anti-anxiety medications used for oral sedation take several hours to wear off. In this case, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. If you do not have someone present who will drive you home, we will be unable o sedate you during your appointment.

How Much Does Sedation Cost?

The fee for sedation varies and depends on your age, weight, and a number of other factors. Our team will inform you about pricing when you make your appointment. In addition, most dental insurance companies will cover at least part of the cost of sedation dentistry.

More Questions? Call Us Today!

If you have dental anxiety and you are looking for a dentist who can make you feel calm and comfortable, give the team at Buckwalter Dental Care a call! You can contact us at (843) 815-3232, or come in for an in-person consultation at 31 Innovation Dr, #2, Bluffton, SC 29910. Take control of your oral health and schedule your appointment today!

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