Sedation Dentistry
SEDATION DENTISTRY
Calming Nerves
With Sedation Dentistry
An estimated 9-20% of Americans avoid getting the dental care they need because of anxiety or fear. Fortunately, there are many ways to relieve dental anxiety! First and foremost, please feel free to communicate your fears with us and we will be happy to discuss them with you, and adapt our approach as necessary. Other great tips include choosing a low-stress appointment time, bringing headphones and music, and practicing relaxation techniques and breathing. For our most anxious patients, we are happy to offer several comfortable and simple sedation services here at Dental Care of Glen Ellyn.
Nitrous Oxide
SEDATION DENTISTRY
Known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide has pain-relieving and anxiety-reducing properties and often leads to feelings of euphoria and extreme relaxation. When using nitrous oxide as a sedative, we carefully adjust the precise amount required for each patient and procedure. When used alone, patients can typically head out the door immediately after their appointment due to its short-lived effects. However, when used in combination with sleep sedation, patients require someone to drive them home as well as supervision for 24 hours after the procedure.
Oral Conscious
SEDATION DENTISTRY
For those with moderate levels of anxiety, our oral conscious sedation is a great option. Taken about an hour or so before your treatment begins, this sedative makes you feel even more relaxed than nitrous oxide, but still awake so you can speak with the dentist directly about your comfort levels. Since the sedative is generally more powerful, you will need to have a friend or family member drive you to and from the dental office.
IV Sedation
SEDATION DENTISTRY
The most powerful of sedation available in dentistry, IV sedation is administered intravenously through the bloodstream. This option is more ideal for those with severe levels of anxiety or special needs. The IV allows the Anesthesiologist to control the amount of sedative provided at any given time, while Dr. Brian Shin completes your dental treatment. Following your appointment, we ask that you have a friend or family pick you up from your appointment. You should also wait about 12 hours for the effects to completely wear off.
