I have a real passion for helping others. After all, the reason I wanted to become a dentist was in order help others with their teeth. I love my job and look forward to coming to work every day.
Not too long after graduating dental school, I was in need of oral care myself. My late nights of studying and drinking caramel ‘frapps’ from the local Starbucks had caught up with me. The morning of my appointment I confessed to my wife that I was a little nervous about my planned procedures. Even though I had first hand knowledge about everything that was going to take place from the type of tools that would be used to how the anesthetic would block the nerve so I wouldn’t feel anything, I was still nervous. As I expressed this worry to my wife, she looked up at me and said, “Ryan, don’t you know that everyone is nervous before going to the dentist?” To be honest, up to this point, I had not fully understood the reality that my wife clearly pointed out. I was convinced that everyone loved going to the dentist! I was obviously wrong.
What can dentistry now offer to alleviate fear and anxiety? How has modern dentistry improved in order to make a trip to the dentist not such a dreaded event? Besides traditional anesthetic and nitrous oxide, one other classifications of drugs, benzodiazepines, has become popular for patients needing oral care. Once an initial exam has been done and I have concluded that my patient is eligible for such a drug, my patient is given a prescription. On the day of the appointment, my patient takes one pill one hour prior to their appointment. This pill will decrease anxiety and allow me to provide much needed oral care to a relaxed and calm patient.
I love what I do and I love sharing my abilities with others. I am glad, as many of my patients are, for modern advancements in dentistry like benzodiazepines. If you have any questions regarding this service, I encourage you to call or email my office. My staff and I would be happy to assist you in learning more about this valuable service. Remember, I have been in your chair and understand how anxiety affects one’s willingness to seek dental care.