Many people suffer from severe anxiety when faced with dental procedures. Thankfully there are several ways to ease your fears and they are available in varying price ranges.
The easiest and usually most cost-effective option is using a gas called nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. This will not put you to sleep, but it will deeply relax you. The gas is usually enough for people who have mild to moderate anxiety. The price for nitrous oxide is typically $100 or less depending on your dentist. Another great benefit from using gas is the fact that as soon as it is turned off, you will return to normal in a minute or two. This means that you can drive yourself home and return to normal activities that day.
Oral conscious sedation is another option. This involves taking oral medication shortly before your appointment. There are many medications available, and every dentist has different preferences. Most dentists will use either anti-anxiety medications, sedatives, or tranquilizers. For severe anxiety your doctor may combine an oral medication with nitrous oxide. The price of these medications varies greatly. Unlike Nitrous Oxide, with this method you will need to have a driver to take you to your appointment and home. The rest of your day should be limited to light activity.
There are many options available for handling anxiety, talk to your doctor about what options they have and what would work best for you.
