For many people, dental procedures have always been synonymous with pain. Pain is one of the main reasons why many patients who need medical care for dental problems do not receive proper care. Because of the painful experiences they had during previous dental procedures, patients become anxious about receiving further dental care.
However, with the advancement of dental technology, dentists now claim that they can provide painless dental services to patients. Painless dentistry is particularly helpful for patients with dental anxiety as they can reduce the cause of their fear and reduce or completely eliminate the pain associated with dental procedures.
But is painless dental treatment really possible? If so, how?
Painless Dentistry: Fact or Fiction?
Due to the nature of dental procedures, patients may think that there is no way their dental treatments can be painless. However, with recent advances in dentistry, dentists are now able to offer their patients a painless and less traumatic experience. Here are some ways your dentist can relieve the pain of dental treatments.
Lasers: Laser treatments have become an important part of dentistry today. Laser treatments are widely used in soft tissue procedures such as gingival surgeries. In the past, patients who saw the knife used in dental surgeries used to be nervous and uneasy. But with laser surgeries, there is now less blood, less pain, and less cause for worry.
Laughing Gas: In dentistry, nitrous oxide or laughing gas is used to manage pain and anxiety. It is an effective way to help patients relax and feel comfortable during dental treatment. Laughing gas is given by inhalation, and this method is effective for both children and adults.
Composites: Composites and porcelain fillings are less painful than metal fillings. With metal fillings, dentists often have to drill deep into the tooth to create a strong foundation for the filling, but this often weakens the tooth and makes it more prone to cracking.
With composites and porcelain fillings, dentists do not need to drill a lot because such fillings can be fixed to the tooth using adhesives.
Benefits of Painless Dental Procedures
Painless dental treatments help the patient get rid of their dental concerns and give them more confidence in the dentist. Patients benefit greatly because a strong dentist-patient relationship means their dental needs are always met in ways that are comfortable for patients.
Painless dental procedures will also make you more willing to accept treatments. Before pain and discomfort become prominent, patients will be more responsive when an implant needs to be placed or a crown placed on the tooth. This will also lead to better oral health for affected patients.
