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April 17, 2012

Overcoming Dental Fears

An estimated 30% of people avoid visiting the dentist due to fear and anxiety. Recent research from the University of Sydney found that women in their 40s are more likely to experience dental fear.   This is because members of this demographic are more likely to have felt trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, or stress that interferes with a relaxed state of mind. In addition, people with a low pain tolerance, high sensitivity, or difficulty sitting still may fear dental discomfort. Fortunately, Dr. Pate can help relieve your nerves with sedation dentistry to make your appointment relaxing and comfortable.

Tips to Fight Dental Anxiety

To achieve their bright superstar smiles, Robert de Niro, Kelly Osbourne, and Billy Ray Cyrus all had to overcome their dental phobias. Here are some strategies you can use to cope with your dental fear so you, too, can receive the healthy and beautiful smile of your dreams.

October 14, 2011

Kiss Your Dental Fear Goodbye!

About half of Americans do not visit the dentist, and up to 20% of this number feel scared, anxious, or stressed about dental appointments. Dental phobia has many levels. Some folks just get kind of queasy, while others experience debilitating fear. The good news is, you don’t have to be scared any longer. You’re thinking, yeah right! Consider, however, that while Dr. Pate and our staff are friendly, gentle, and caring, I’m talking about medication to ease your fear. This is not a mind-over-matter suggestion. Sedation dentistry will make you feel relaxed and calm during dental visits.

In addition to providing nitrous oxide (laughing gas), a safe and effective way of alleviating dental phobia, Dr. Pate also offers oral conscious sedation. He can prescribe a single dose of anti-anxiety medication for you to take before your dental treatment. The drug will make you feel groggy, but it will not induce sleep. Some people do fall asleep because they’re so relaxed. Rest assured, with oral sedation, you’ll retain the ability to speak and respond to Dr. Pate. While you’re sedated, we’ll keep a close eye on your heart rate, as well as your comfort level.

Sedation dentistry is perfect for patients who: (more…)

June 17, 2011

Will sedation dentistry ease your fears?

Of the following, which one makes you the most nervous?

  • Heights
  • Flying
  • Injections
  • Doctors
  • Snakes
  • Going to the dentist
  • Spiders
  • Going to the hospital

A recent study conducted by the British Dental Health Foundation produced some interesting results. In the lead-up to National Smile Month 2011, the Foundation asked over 1,000 people what makes them the most nervous.

More than 1 in 5 people rated visiting the dentist as the culprit that causes them the most anxiety!

A fear of heights topped the poll, followed by visiting the dentist and going to the hospital. Surprisingly, snakes ranked fourth, while spiders came in fifth.

Obviously, a large number of people suffer from fear of the dentist or some form of dental phobia.  Unfortunately, that means  these folks are not getting the dental care they need simply because they’re afraid.

Dr. Peter Pate can help. With sedation dentistry, you can leave your anxiety at the door and get the care you need. Dr. Pate will review your suggested treatment course and answer your questions to alleviate any lingering apprehension. Depending on your goals, concerns, and medical history, Dr. Pate will suggest the right method of sedation for you. Our sedation dentistry options include nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation.

For more information or to reserve your appointment, call Dentistry in Buckhead in Atlanta, Georgia at (404) 266-9424.

August 4, 2010

Don’t Be Scared! Ask Dr. Pate about Sedation Dentistry

First of all, more people avoid dental visits because of fear (est. 30%) than avoid airplanes because of fear of flying (est. 18%). I want you to know, dental fear, dental phobia, call it stress, anxiety, apprehension, or what you will—being too scared to go to the dentist is a common and very real problem. You, my friend, are not alone.

When you visit my office, Dentistry in Buckhead, we can sit down and talk about your concerns. Please be open with me and my staff so that we can help you. I’ve assembled a compassionate, dedicated team of professionals who understand dental phobia and sedation dentistry. Personally, I’ve taken continuing education through the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS), and I maintain active membership with this respected association.

We offer two levels of sedation, and I’ll be happy to talk with you about which is best for your situation. Here’s a summary of each… (more…)