Being nervous at the dentist is a very common thing that most people experience. Dental anxiety is also common but a little different than just having the jitters. Those with dental anxiety have a sense of uneasiness when it’s time for their appointments. We know your fears are very real and understand the worries you have. When you experience this kind of dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help keep you calm during your dental visit. Read on to learn about your Naperville family dentist’s techniques to keep you calm.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different types of sedation dentistry, and your Naperville family and cosmetic dentist can help you decide what works best for you. We want to help you feel as comfortable as possible.
The levels of sedation include:
- Minimal sedation– you are aware and awake but relaxed.
- Moderate seation– your words may blend together and you may not remember much of the procedure.
- Deep Sedation– you are on the verge of consciousness but can wake up without assistance.
- General anesthesia– you are totally unconscious (in a deep sleep).
Types of Sedation
The following types of sedation are used in dentistry:
- Inhaled Minimal Sedation: You will breathe “laughing gas” combined with oxygen through a mask that is placed over your nose. It helps you to relax and the dentist can control the amount you will need. It wears off quickly and is the only form of sedation where you might be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.
- Oral Sedation: It can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation you will take a pill and is usually taken about an hour before the procedure. It makes you drowsy but you will still be fairly alert. A larger dose may be give to produce a moderate effect. This is the most common form of sedation. This may make you drowsy enough to actually fall asleep through the procedure but can still be awakened.
- IV Moderate Sedation: You will receive the sedation drug through a vein and will go to work more quickly. The dentist can easily adjust the level of sedation through this method.
- Deep Sedation and General Anesthesia: You will get medication that will make you almost or entirely unconscious (deeply asleep) during the procedure. You will not be easily awakened during this method until the anesthesia wears off.
There are many different ways that we can help with your dental anxiety and we are here to work with you to make your experience a good one. As your Naperville family dentist, we want you to have a pleasant experience and be as comfortable as possible. When you think of sedation dentistry in Naperville we hope you will choose us!
Call us today to learn more about our sedation dentistry and what could be best for you.