Do you feel anxious when you think about visiting the dentist? Have you avoided dental cleanings for years? You’re not alone. At Gunbarrel Dental, Dr. Rachel Barone understands that it can be hard for some patients to visit the dentist because of fear. She treats patients with dental anxiety in Boulder, CO.
Dental anxiety is part of the common dental concerns many patients have when they visit Dr. Barone. Anxiety or fear of the dentist can limit patients in many ways.
The Problem with Dental Fear and Anxiety
Feeling anxious about the dentist can affect your oral health. When people avoid dental visits because of fear, small problems like cavities or gum disease can grow worse over time. Skipping regular cleanings and checkups can also lead to more complex treatments later on. This creates a cycle where fear keeps building, and dental health keeps declining.
Dental anxiety can also affect your confidence. If you avoid dental care, you might feel embarrassed about how your teeth look or feel. You may stop smiling or feel uncomfortable in social situations.
The good news is, you don’t have to live with dental anxiety. Dr. Barone and her team offer gentle care, a supportive environment, and options like sedation dentistry to help you feel more comfortable. Whether your fear is mild or severe, we have solutions that can help you get the care you need without the stress.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sedation?
Sedation Dentistry can help many people feel more relaxed and comfortable during their visit. If you get nervous about going to the dentist, sedation might be a great option for you. At Gunbarrel Dental, Dr. Rachel Barone offers different types of sedation to meet each patient’s needs.
Sedation can help patients with:
- Dental Anxiety or Fear: If going to the dentist makes you feel scared or stressed, you’re not alone. Many people avoid dental care because of fear, bad past experiences, or feeling out of control. Sedation can help ease these feelings and make your visit much more comfortable.
- Strong Gag Reflex: Some people have a sensitive gag reflex, which makes it hard for them to get dental work done—especially when tools are placed in the back of the mouth. Sedation helps your body relax so that your gag reflex is less active, making it easier for the dentist to do their work.
- Sensitive Teeth or Low Pain Tolerance: If you have very sensitive teeth or find even gentle dental work uncomfortable, sedation can help reduce discomfort. You may not even remember more lengthy treatment. Sedation also helps you stay calm during cleanings and other routine treatments.
- Long or Complex Dental Procedures: Sedation is also helpful for longer appointments or more involved treatments, such as getting a crown, root canal, or several fillings in one visit. It helps you stay relaxed and still for the entire procedure.
- Difficulty Sitting Still or Anxiety in Kids: Children or people with special needs who have trouble sitting still or feel anxious during dental visits can also benefit from sedation. It makes the experience easier and less stressful for the patient and our dental team.
Sedation Dentistry for Dental Anxiety in Boulder, CO
Whether you have mild nerves or severe dental fear, Dr. Barone can recommend the right level of sedation for your needs. Sedation can be used for everything from routine cleanings to more complex procedures. Types of sedation we offer at Gunbarrel Dental include:
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a gentle, fast-acting gas that helps you feel relaxed during your dental visit. You breathe it in through a small mask placed over your nose. It works quickly and wears off just as fast, so you can drive yourself home afterward. It’s a great option for kids and adults with mild anxiety.
Oral Conscious Sedation
With this option, Dr. Barone will give you a pill to take before your appointment. The medicine will make you feel very calm and even sleepy, but you’ll still be awake and able to respond. This type of sedation is helpful for patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety. You’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is the strongest form of sedation offered at Gunbarrel Dental. The medicine is given through a small needle in your arm, and it works quickly. You’ll feel very relaxed and may not remember much of your visit. This option is best for people with extreme dental fear or longer procedures. A trained professional will monitor you closely throughout your appointment.
How to Feel Comfortable at the Dentist
Feeling nervous about going to the dentist is very common. Some people worry about pain, others don’t like the sounds or smells, and some may have had a bad experience in the past. No matter the reason, it’s okay to feel anxious. The good news is, there are many ways to help you feel more comfortable at the dentist.
At Gunbarrel Dental, Dr. Rachel Barone and her team understand that going to the dentist can be stressful. They take extra steps to make your visit as easy and relaxing as possible.
- Talk to Our Team: One of the most important things you can do is share your concerns. If you’re feeling anxious, let us know. Dr. Barone and the dental team will listen carefully and take your feelings seriously. We’ll explain what to expect, answer your questions, and find ways to make the experience easier for you. You don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here to help.
- Bring Something That Helps You Relax: It’s okay to bring comforting items to your appointment. Listening to your favorite music through headphones can help take your mind off the dental work. Some people bring a cozy blanket, a small pillow, or even a stress ball to squeeze. These little things can help you feel more at ease in the dental chair.
- Ask for Breaks: You are always in control of your appointment. If you feel overwhelmed or just need a minute to breathe, raise your hand. We’ll stop and give you time to relax or ask questions. Taking short breaks can make the whole experience feel more manageable.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Has it been some time since your last dental check-up? Overcome dental anxiety in Boulder, CO at Gunbarrel Dental Center. Request an appointment with Dr. Barone online or call 720-881-0614.