Can Sedation Dentistry in Manchester Calm My Nerves?

Can Sedation Dentistry in Manchester Calm My Nerves?

Do you get nervous going to your dentist? If so, you should know that it’s very common, with around 50% of adults in the UK getting some kind of anxiety when visiting a clinic. For some, it’s butterflies before a dental check-up, whereas for others, it can mean not going to the dentist – even when they’re in pain.

If you’re part of that second group, you should know that sedation dentistry in Manchester might offer the support you need to get back in the dentist’s chair. It’s designed to help you relax, making everything easier to deal with.

Of course, not everyone needs it, and it’s not suitable for all situations, but when facing a debilitating inability to get your teeth checked out, every little helps. So, let’s dive in to see what’s on offer.

What Is Sedation Dentistry in Manchester?

So, what do we mean exactly by sedation dentistry? Well, it’s as the term suggests – your dentist offers you medication that allows you to relax during the treatment. The vast majority of the time, you won’t get put to sleep. In fact, you can still talk and follow the dentist’s instructions. You’re just calmer.

Which type of sedation dentistry in Manchester is right for the job in question? Well, you’ll talk with your dentist to find the right option from amongst:

• Nitrous Oxide Inhalation – Also known better by the term ‘laughing gas’, nitrous oxide is given to you via a mask, which you breathe in. It’s an option that works fast and leaves your system quickly, usually allowing you to go home under your own steam.
• Oral Sedation – You might be given an oral sedative (such as diazepam) which you’ll take around an hour before your appointment. It’ll make you relaxed, but also drowsy, so you’ll need to get a lift home.
• IV Sedation – If you’re very nervous or the treatment is long and complex, you could be offered IV sedation. Injected in your arm or hand, it’ll put you in a really relaxed state, and you won’t remember everything afterwards, so someone will need to escort you
• General anaesthetic – This option will put you completely out for the count and it has to happen in hospital. It usually only happens for major surgery like wisdom teeth removal, or when nothing else works.

Most of the time, it’s either an oral sedative or nitrous oxide for mild anxiety and IV sedation for bad nerves. To find out more about handling nerves before you arrive, check out our helpful article on the subject. 

When Should I think About Sedation Dentistry in Altrincham and Cheadle?

You don’t need to be a self-confessed dentist-chair-phobe to think about using medication to help you relax. There are plenty of nervous patients out there, and many don’t even know they have a problem it until they arrive.

Plenty of patients book sedation for practical reasons. Maybe they need lengthy work done like a root canal, or they’ve avoided the dentist for years and the worry about what they’ll find gets a little overwhelming.

Common reasons people choose sedation:

• Cancelling appointments repeatedly because they can’t face going
• Struggling to sit still even during hygienist appointments
• Feeling panicky at the thought of dental treatment
• A gag reflex that makes examinations difficult

You should absolutely never feel like you’re making a fuss when asking for sedation dentistry in Manchester. We see anxious patients all the time – as do all dentists – and it’s just standard treatment that does the job.

What Happens During a Typical Sedation Appointment?

When you book a ‘sedation’ dental appointment, it’ll go very much like a standard one, but things are taken a little more slowly. Your safety is the most important thing, so your dentist needs to ask you about your medical history and what exactly makes you nervous.

It’s not suitable for everyone, because if you have an issue like sleep apnoea, or a heart condition, or you’re expecting a baby, sedation dentistry in Manchester might not be suitable. If it is suitable, it’ll go something like this:

The main thing you’ll need to think about before and after your sedation appointment is whether you need help getting home, as the choice that’s made will affect how alert you are. Your dentist will handle everything else.

Nervous Patient? The Ringway Dental Team is Here to Help

Everyone deserves good teeth, regardless of how nervous they are when at the dentist. Sedation dentistry in Manchester means that there’s a way to make things easier if you do get those appointment jitters.  All you have to do is talk to your dentist when you book. It’s that easy.

At Ringway Dental, we regularly see nervous patients at both our Altrincham and Cheadle clinics, so we understand how tough it can be when anxiety takes over and know exactly how to make you more relaxed.

If you’re ready to see if sedation is the key for you, just get in touch with our friendly team today. They’ll tell you everything you need to know.

FAQs About Sedation Dentistry in Manchester

Q – What if the sedation doesn’t work on me?

A – It’s rare, but it can happen. If it doesn’t work properly, your dentist will tweak the dose. If sedatives haven’t worked well for you in the past, tell them during your consultation, as it will help them figure out what’ll actually do the job.

Q – Can I have sedation for just a hygiene appointment?

A – You can, though most people don’t bother. If nerves are stopping you booking hygiene appointments altogether, it’s worth having. Nitrous oxide makes sense here – quick, easy, and you’re good to go soon afterwards.

Q – How much does sedation cost on top of my treatment?

A – That depends on the type. Nitrous oxide usually adds £50-£150 to your bill. IV sedation costs more, typically £200-£400. The sedation is charged separately from whatever dental work you’re having done, so factor both in when budgeting.

Q – Can I have sedation if I’m on antidepressants?

A – Usually yes, but your dentist will need to know about every medication you take. Some drugs don’t mix well with sedatives. Be completely honest at your consultation – even stuff that seems unrelated matters.

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