Fear of the Dentist Many people have a fear of seeing the dentist. Whether this is as a result of a fear of needles or sharp instruments (known as belonephobia), trauma caused as a result of a prior dental experience or a general feeling of apprehension such fear can mean that patients put off seeking help when they have experience problems. In turn this can have serious consequences for your oral health, and can mean that more invasive and aggressive treatment is required. With so many people suffering from these feelings of apprehension you would think that something could be done to make the experience less of an ordeal. Well, something has been done. Many dentists now offer dental oral sedation to their patients. What is dental oral sedation? Dental oral sedation involves prescribing anti-anxiety drugs to patient prior to their dental appointment. It is designed to help patients arrive to their appointment in a relaxed state, free from the normal fear and anxiety which dogs them when they walk in to the surgery, or sit in the chair. With patients in a relaxed state the dentist is then able to work quick, and potentially do more, especially when treatment is required. Types of oral sedation There are many different types of oral sedation available, and it is important that you work with your dentist, and other healthcare providers, to ensure that you find the right one for you. 
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Diazepam (Valium) this is the most common drug used for oral sedation, and as it can last a while, it is most popular for extensive dental treatments where patients need to be remain relaxed for longer periods of time. Triazolam (Halcion) and Zaleplon (Sonata) are often used to help treat cases of insomnia. They can be used prior to your appointment in an attempt to ensure that you sleep well the night before and are refreshed and relaxed prior to treatment, or during your treatment to keep you in a sedated and clam state. Lorazepam (Ativan) is commonly used to help treat anxiety, regardless of its cause and acts as a highly effective sedative which is ideal for appointments lasting more than two hours.
How to find out more If you suffer from anxiety when seeking dental treatment you should discuss this with your dentist directly. They can talk to you about the origin of your fear and help provide you with more information that may be relevant to your own situation. For some people simply knowing more about what to expect during treatment, and learning some breathing techniques can be a huge help to reducing stress and anxiety. Your dentist can also provide you with advice should you wish to consider using dental oral sedation in the future and help you discover what will work best for you. Resource dentist/
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