Sydney, NSW -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/29/2014 -- Statistics released by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders estimates that approximately 4% of all people are considered dental phobic. This rate of prevalence is similar to that of people who fear snakes or heights. Some experts state that number is low; however, estimating the real figure as high as 10%, with some possessing a phobia so paralyzing it keeps them from making regular dentist visits.

With this in mind, a new form of dentistry has taken hold, attracting those self-proclaimed 'fraidy-cats' and providing them with a dentistry option. Explains Dr. Ron Ehrlich, spokesperson for the Sydney Holistic Dental Centre (www.shdc.com.au), "Many individuals who tremble at the thought of visiting their local dentist have simply avoided it altogether. The pain, the bright lights and the drill-like noises can be enough to keep these nervous patients from returning to the dentist. So, with that in mind, the SHDC has begun offering a number of options to those with dental phobia."

The four most common types of sedation dentistry options include oral, inhalation, intravenous, and general anesthetic. Dr. Ehrlich explains the differences, saying, "Oral sedation can be something as common as an anti-anxiety and pain-relieving medication a dentist prescribes in tablet or liquid form. For some, this is all that is needed. For others, inhalation sedation, or laughing gas is what can calm them down enough to have their teeth cleaned or an exam to take place. For those with a more deep seeded fear, IV sedation or sleep dentistry may be necessary or even a general anesthetic. Sleep dentistry, is, in fact, fast becoming an increasingly popular choice for dental patients across a range of procedures"

Sleep dentistry, commonly used on those who fear any type of treatment, is considered acceptable for any sized process, large or small, although the most common procedures performed using this method include tooth removals, crown preparations and dental implants. Although, says Dr. Ehrlich, "It can also benefit those who are short on time and want to get as much work completed as quickly as possible in the one visit."

About Sydney Holistic Dental Centre
Sydney Holistic Dental Centre aims to provide the highest standard of treatment in a caring and comfortable environment. There, they have dedicated the last 30 years to improving their patients’ health and well being through understanding the many links that exist between oral health and overall health. Their aim is to provide optimal oral health care to enhance their patient’s general health through by placing equal importance on three key areas, Patient Care, Technical Skills and Team Work. This has formed what they refer to as the equilateral triangle of care that wholly represents their practice.