“Palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy.”
The above words are from a popular rap song released in 2002. In “Lose Yourself” entertainer Eminem goes on to discuss being nervous to the point of ruining his mother’s spaghetti he ate just a short time before.
Whether you’re familiar with the lyrics or not, there’s a good chance you’ve experienced the same fate as Eminem in nerve-wracking situations.
If you’ve experienced sweaty palms, a general ill feeling, and other negative symptoms when thinking about or actually going to the dentist, it’s time to talk about dental anxiety.
At Biggers Family Dentistry, we strive to go above and beyond to make our patients feel more comfortable during their time with us. Your oral health is far too important to ignore. If you struggle with dental anxiety and have been too afraid to visit the dentist, we encourage you to give us a chance to show you how positive the experience can be.
Do I Have Dental Anxiety?
You would be hard-pressed to find someone who outright admits they love going to the dentist. But you shouldn’t feel so afraid of a trip a dentist’s office that it affects you physically.
If you struggle with fear and anxiety over going to the dentist, the first thing we want you to know is that you’re not alone. An estimated 9 to 20 percent of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of fear or anxiety.
Symptoms of dental anxiety include:
- Avoiding a trip to the dentist
- Trouble sleeping the night before your trip to the dentist
- An increasing feeling of nervousness as you wait for your appointment
- Crying or feeling sick at the thought of going to the dentist
- Extreme uneasiness at the thought of when objects are put in your mouth during a dental exam
- Feeling like it is hard to breathe during a dental exam
Whether your anxiety comes from a bad experience or fear of one, we can help you overcome your symptoms, feel more relaxed during your time with us, and get the dental care you need.
Overcome Dental Anxiety With Sedation Dentistry
At Biggers Family Dentistry, Dr. Hood Biggers and our experience and compassionate team have the experience necessary to help you find relief from your dental anxiety. We’ll take however much time is needed and make sure you feel comfortable during your time with us.
We work hard to make sure our Midlothian, VA dental office is warm and welcoming but we understand that you may still feel overwhelmed with anxiety. Fortunately, at Biggers Family Dentistry we are able to offer dental sedation to ease your symptoms.
Nitrous Oxide
With nitrous oxide, you’ll feel warm, comfortable, and relaxed. It’s one of the most commonly-used dental sedatives because it’s effective and safe. In fact, we can even use nitrous oxide or laughing gas, on kids!
If nitrous oxide is right for you, you’ll wear a small mask that allows you to breathe in the nitrous oxide. You’ll feel relaxed in no time at all!
We particularly like nitrous oxide because Dr. Biggers can adjust the amount of sedation easily and as needed depending on your level of anxiety. Our patients like that it takes effect within minutes and wears off quickly after your procedure so you can drive yourself home.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is the other form of dental sedation we offer. For a deeper level of sedation, you’ll take an oral sedative, in the form of a pill, approximately an hour before your appointment. By the time you arrive for your appointment, you’ll already feel relaxed and will remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Because the effects take longer to wear off, you’ll need a ride home after your procedure.
Learn More About Dental Sedation & Relieving Dental Anxiety Today
When you visit our Midlothian, VA dental office, we can discuss your symptoms and come up with a solution that will work best for you. When you call to schedule an appointment, mention your concerns so we can do everything possible to make you feel more comfortable.
Remember, it’s important for good overall health to take care of your teeth. Don’t let dental anxiety keep you from staying on top of your health.
Call Biggers Family Dentistry at 804-621-2199 or contact us online to request an appointment.