A sedation endodontist in 23226 can manage their patients’ discomfort during a procedure. If you’ve wondered who goes in for sedation endodontics, you’re not alone. We’ve compiled a list of the different types of patients who benefit from this practice. 

Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry?

Dental Phobics and Anxious Patients

Did you know that around 40 million Americans avoid regular dental checkups due to overwhelming feelings of fear and anxiety associated with visiting the dentist? Since these patients don’t receive professional and preventive dental care, most experience severe oral health issues, including untreated cavities, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. 

It’s important to note that dental fear and anxiety range in intensity. Thankfully, dental professionals who provide a full suite of sedation options can ensure a patient’s comfort regardless of their level of anxiety. 

Patients with Sensitive Gag Reflex

A gag reflex or pharyngeal reflex is a natural and involuntary reaction throat muscles make whenever a foreign object comes into contact with the back of the throat. The tendency to gag serves to prevent choking and swallowing foreign objects.  

Patients with hypersensitive pharyngeal nerves or those struggling with a fear of being unable to breathe often avoid the dentist. Commonly used dental tools such as bitewings, cotton swabs, impression material, x-rays, and even jets of air and water can trigger their gag reflex.  

Sedation endodontics can help patients with a sensitive gag reflex complete their appointments comfortably. The endodontist uses medication to put patients into a deep state of relaxation that reduces their gag reflex during the duration of treatment. 

Patients with Disabilities

A visit to the dentist may provoke fear, anxiety, and frustration among patients with developmental or physical disabilities. For example, patients with neurological disabilities such as cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s disease, or severe autism may have problems sitting still during a dental visit. Moreover, travelling to the dental office may leave someone with limited mobility feeling anxious and exhausted even before their treatment begins. 

Dental sedation’s calming effects can help patients with disabilities sit through a procedure by putting their minds and bodies in a relaxed state. 

Looking for a Sedation Endodontist in 23226?

At Commonwealth Endodontics, we provide high-quality endodontic care in a safe and comfortable environment. Request an appointment today.