Anxiety Management

Anxiety surrounding dental appointments is very common, & it can prevent patients from getting the dental care they need. Because regular dental care is the most important factor in preventing oral disease & the need for more complex treatments, it should not be avoided. If you feel anxious about visiting the dentist, we can help!

At Grover Dental Care, we will do everything we can to help patients feel relaxed & comfortable when they visit us.

We are here to talk to you about your fears & concerns & establish a plan ahead of time to help you manage your anxiety during the appointment.

During your procedure, we will work at your pace, answer your questions & take breaks if you need them. Whatever you need, we’re here for you. Our dentists & team can help provide a relaxing dental experience to help our patients get the care they need.

Dental Sedation Options

Oral Sedation (Light)

Oral sedation is an anti-anxiety medication. After you have consulted our dental team, we will inform you of the correct medication you will need. They are generally taken prior to your appointment & it is advisable for you to be accompanied by someone responsible, to make sure you arrive at our dental office safely, as well as return to your home safely.

You will find that by the time you arrive, you will be relaxed sufficiently for most dental work to proceed without any anxiety.

Nitrous Sedation (Moderate)

Nitrous oxide (N20), better known as laughing gas, is a gas that is inhaled. It is colorless, odorless & not a known irritant. It is administered through a nose piece & it works quickly. As such, it is helpful in numbing the nerves in the mouth so that the dentist can work without you experiencing any pain.

There are no known contraindications, or side effects, with the use of nitrous oxide. However, it is not safe to use during the first trimester of pregnancy.

IV Sedation (Heavy)

For our patients who suffer from dental phobia, IV sedation is an alternative to the anxiety experienced in the dentist’s chair. It induces a state of deep relaxation & your recollection of the experience will be limited. During the sedation period though, you will be able to understand & respond to the Dentist’s requests. IV sedation is not a painkiller but rather an anti-anxiety drug. Your gums will still need to be numbed, but the dentist will wait until the sedation has taken effect before starting any procedure.

We are extremely careful when administering IV sedation. It is carried out only under the supervision of a specifically trained dental specialist. It is a safe drug, but pregnant women & those with glaucoma should avoid its use. Cautions are given to those who suffer lung, kidney or liver malfunctions as well as those of advanced age, or those who deal with sleep apnea.

General Anaesthesia

General Anaesthesia is recommended only as a last resort & for the use of adults only when there is no other method of pain or anxiety management. General Anaesthesia has risks. It must be administered under supervision, in a controlled environment. At Grover Dental Care, we would recommend & refer you to an Oral Surgeon.