Sedation Dentistry

Dental Phobia is listed as one of the top ten most common fears in the world! Many of us will avoid dental checkups and treatments because of it. At Evanston Family Dental we want your dental visit to be a pleasant experience every time. We offer several methods of sedation so that even the most apprehensive patients can take control of their dental health.

If you and the dentist determine that your case is right for sedation, the dentist may use nitrous oxide, oral medication or IV sedation.  Sedation has helped many patients overcome the barriers created by profound anxieties about dental procedures that stand in the way of optimal oral health.

Nitrous Oxide
Commonly referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is used in surgery and dentistry for its pain blocking and reducing effects. It is known as "laughing gas" due to the euphoric effects of inhaling it. The administration of nitrous oxide is used to enhance patient comfort and relieve anxiety for patients of all ages. The gas (a nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture) is inhaled through a face mask. The amount of gas that you receive is monitored and controlled by the dentist to ensure your comfort and safety. You will begin to relax, allowing the dentist to perform your dental work while stay comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly and you will be capable of driving yourself home following your visit and can continue your daily activities as normal.

Oral Conscious Sedation
To relieve the very real and often debilitating anxiety associated with dental phobia, we also offer oral conscious sedation. Patients who feel stressed about dental work, a well as those who need multiple procedures performed in one visit, benefit from conscious sedation.

The procedures involves taking an oral sedative prior to your visit. You will need to have someone drive you to your appointment and home from your appointment. You will feel relaxed and comfortable. Your vital signs and comfort level are keenly monitored throughout your visit.

IV Conscious Sedation
This type of sedation induces an altered state of consciousness, also known as a “twilight” state, which is a groggy state of mind and a relaxed body.  This form of sedation minimizes pain and discomfort. Patients who receive conscious sedation usually are able to speak and respond to verbal cues throughout the procedure, communicating any discomfort they experience to the dentist.   While you are under the effects of the sedation, the dentist can perform your dental work, and you will remain comfortable. The medication also provides an amnesia effect, to erase any memory of the procedure. Your vitals signs and comfort are carefully monitored.  After your procedure(s), you will need a ride home from the dental office. The following day, the sedative will clear the body so that you can resume daily activities.