Did you know that, globally, 30% of people between the ages of 65 and 74 have no remaining natural teeth? This is a little scary to think about, but in many places around the world, being able to seek a high level of dental care is a luxury. Many people in poor countries have no means to either get to a dentist office or pay for a local dentist to take care of them. In the United States, we are fortunate to have quality dental care available to us, yet 178 million Americans are missing one or more teeth, and 92% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have had cavities. Despite the availability of dental care, there are still many people suffering from dental issues due to another reason.
Many people are so afraid of the dentist that they avoid going all together. Luckily, sedation is an option for people like this. If you have a gripping fear of the dentist, you should consider sedation at the dentist to get the care you need. Below, check out the different types of sedation you can ask a dentist about:

1. Minimal Sedation – With this type of sedation, the patient is still conscious and can breath on their own, however they will feel at ease as the dentist works on their teeth.
2. Moderate Sedation – A slightly deeper form of sedation, with moderate sedation, the patient is conscious and breathing on their own and responds with little prompting.
3. Deep Sedation – This type of sedation induces a deep sleep and the patient will not likely respond without aggressive prompting. Breathing may be hindered, and therefore the patient might require assistance.
4. General Anesthesia – General Anesthesia knocks the patient out so that they will remain unconscious throughout the procedure. They will need help breathing.

Sedation at the dentist can help patients with a fear of the dentist get through procedures. If you are afraid of the dentist, don’t let it keep you from maintaining good oral hygiene. Find a sedation dentist and see how they can help you. Good refereneces.