I get what you're saying about IV sedation, but honestly, the idea of needles still makes me cringe a bit. I went with laughing gas for a filling once, and yeah, it didn't totally block everything out, but it was enough to keep me calm. Plus, no needles involved, which was a huge relief. Maybe bring headphones to drown out any dentist karaoke sessions... just in case.
I totally get the hesitation about needles—I'm not exactly a fan either. Laughing gas worked pretty well for me during my extraction. It didn't completely erase the discomfort, but it definitely took the edge off enough to get through it calmly. One tip I'd add: bringing headphones is great, but also consider picking a playlist or podcast that's really engaging. I found focusing on something interesting helped distract me even more from the procedure itself... and the dentist's questionable music choices.
Laughing gas was decent for me too, but honestly, IV sedation made a huge difference when I had my wisdom teeth out. I'm no fan of needles either, but the anxiety relief was worth the quick pinch. Felt like I blinked and it was done. Agree 100% about the headphones though—my dentist's office playlist was straight outta the '80s... and not in a good way.
I totally get the needle anxiety—I'm the same way. Laughing gas worked okay for me, but I still felt pretty aware of everything going on. IV sedation sounds tempting, especially if it makes things feel quicker. Did you notice any grogginess or side effects afterward? I'm considering it for my next extraction, but I don't wanna be out of commission all day... Also, dentist playlists are always questionable at best, lol.
Totally understand the needle anxiety, it's super common. Laughing gas helps take the edge off but yeah, you're still pretty aware. IV sedation usually feels quicker because you're so relaxed you don't notice time passing as much. Most people I see wake up feeling a bit groggy at first, but it clears up pretty fast—usually within an hour or two. Just make sure someone's around to drive you home and maybe chill for the afternoon. And honestly, dentist playlists are always hit or miss...mostly miss, haha.
