Why do people avoid going to the dentist in Fairhope? Above all, it’s fear of pain. Perhaps you had a painful experience at a dentist. Or perhaps you’ve heard stories, seen movies (we won’t mention their titles!), or even comedy routines that exaggerate experiences in the dental chair.
Nearly 75 percent of adults have some dental anxiety, and about 5 to 10 percent have a true dental phobia. Even the process of getting numb can cause anxiety in patients.
At Northcutt Dental Practice, we understand how you feel. After all, dentists are patients too! If you’ve been avoiding seeing a dentist because of your fears, you might not be aware of how much we can do to help you be relaxed and comfortable before and during your appointment.
We can offer you oral conscious sedation, where you’re given a prescription for an anti-anxiety medication. You take one pill before your appointment and when you arrive, you’ll feel much more relaxed and anxiety-free. You’ll need someone to drive you to your appointment and take you home when you use oral conscious sedation.
We also use nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” at the start of your appointment. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll be in a blissful, comfortable state. You may doze off, or you can remain completely conscious, depending on how restful you feel.
When you’re not tense or fearful, the local anesthesia we use will work much better. Instead of the fear–pain–fear cycle you might be dreading, all you’ll feel is relaxed and pain-free. When you know you won’t be fearful or in pain, eventually you might not need or want the oral medication, but it’s always available to you if you wish.
Call any one of our three dental offices in Fairhope, Bay Minette, or Mobile to schedule an appointment. Please let us know what your fears are so we can help you decide which option or options for helping your anxiety are best for you.
7:30 - 7:30 Weekdays!
7:30 – 4:30 Saturdays
