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Board-Certified Pediatric DentistVisit Our Website
01
Oct
Dentist in Greensboro discusses methods for dealing with dental fear
Dr. Steven L. Hatcher has worked with many patients in the Greensboro area dealing with dental fear and anxiety. Nervousness surrounding dental visits is common. Patients of all ages struggle with anxiety during their dental appointments. They should not be embarrassed about their dental fears. Instead, they should be open and honest with their dentist about their anxieties so they can be addressed and patients can feel more comfortable with their dental care. There are even times when patients become more at ease with our team and no longer need to deal with their anxieties. However, in the meantime, these patients often benefit from sedation dentistry.
Sedation puts patients at ease during their visits. Our practice offers three primary types of sedation:
- Nitrous oxide (inhalation sedation with “laughing gas”)
- Oral conscious sedation
- IV sedation
All of these are different methods of relaxing patients, and range from mild to deep. Patients who are dealing with discomfort due to strong gag reflexes or mild anxieties may benefit from nitrous oxide alone. This gas works almost instantly in reducing one’s nervousness and putting them more at ease. Patients are awake but feel completely relaxed throughout their procedure.
Oral conscious sedation is more for patients with moderate fears. This is also great for patients with a fear of needles and for those who are not relaxed enough with nitrous oxide. Oral medication is taken before the appointment and patients are awake and coherent during their visit. They can answer and ask questions and respond to the dental team when necessary. Patients will have little to no recollection of their visit whatsoever, but their dental treatment is complete!
IV sedation is only used in cases where patients have severe anxieties. Medication is administered directly into the bloodstream to relax patients. Some fall asleep during their dental treatment because they are so calm and at ease.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
