Have Dental Anxiety? 5 Ways Sedation Dentistry Can Help You

February 5, 2025

You’re sitting in the waiting room. Your palms are sweaty, your jaw is clenched, and every dental sound—from the hum of equipment to the flip of a magazine page—makes you want to bolt. Sound familiar?

Dental anxiety is real, and for some, it’s the reason they cancel appointments or avoid the dentist for years. However, skipping care only leads to bigger (and more expensive) dental problems.

Luckily, a sedation dentist in Medford, MA, can make your appointment feel like it never happened at all. Whether you need a routine cleaning or major dental work, here’s how sedation dentistry can help you breathe easier in the chair.

kid getting treated and sedated by dentist in Medford MA

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help you relax during dental treatment. It’s commonly used for people who feel nervous, have a low pain tolerance, or need a lot of work done in one visit.

There are different types of sedation:

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Inhaled through a small mask, this mild sedative takes effect quickly and wears off just as fast. You’ll feel calm but stay fully awake.

Oral Sedation: Taken as a pill, this type offers deeper relaxation. You’ll stay conscious but may feel drowsy and may not remember much of the procedure.

IV Sedation: Delivered through a vein, IV sedation puts you fully to sleep and offers a more controlled and deeper level of relaxation. It’s often used for longer or more complex procedures.

No matter the method, your vital signs are monitored the entire time to ensure your safety.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

1. Reduces Fear and Anxiety

If going to the dentist makes you feel panicked or uneasy, sedation helps calm your nerves. You’ll still be aware of what’s happening (except with IV sedation), but your anxiety will be significantly reduced.

Many patients report feeling surprisingly relaxed throughout their appointment, even before treatment begins.

2. Minimizes Discomfort

Sedation is also a great option if you have sensitive teeth, a low pain threshold, or a strong gag reflex. Because your body is more relaxed, you’re less likely to feel pain or tension during the procedure.

Some forms of sedation can also help you tolerate numbing injections more comfortably.

3. Saves Time by Allowing More Work in One Visit

If you’ve been putting off treatment, you might have several issues that need attention. With sedation, it’s often possible to complete multiple procedures in a single visit. This means fewer appointments and less time off work or away from your daily routine.

It also helps reduce the stress of making repeated trips to the dentist.

4. Helps Patients with Special Needs

Some patients find it difficult to sit still, hold their mouth open, or stay calm for extended periods. Sedation makes it easier to undergo treatment without feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated.

It’s especially helpful for patients with sensory processing disorders, autism, or other medical needs that can make dental visits challenging.

5. Encourages Consistent Dental Care

When going to the dentist feels easier, you’re more likely to keep up with your appointments. That means better long-term oral health and fewer major issues down the road.

Patients who once avoided the dentist often find that sedation gives them the confidence to return regularly, turning a dreaded experience into something manageable.

Experience Stress-Free Dental Care with Our Dentist in Medford, MA

Dental visits don’t have to be a source of anxiety. With sedation dentistry, you can feel relaxed, confident, and even sleep through your procedure.

At The Classic Smile, we offer a wide range of services, including implant dentistry and periodontal treatment, all with your comfort in mind.