You may avoid dentist visits because you have dental anxiety. At North Dental Professionals in Chicago and Skokie, Illinois, we understand your concerns. Dr. Paul Chaiken provides sedation dentistry in Chicago, IL, and Skokie, IL, to make your appointments stress-free and comfortable. Dental sedation can make general dentistry procedures like cleanings and fillings more comfortable for our patients.
Types of Dental Sedation
Sedation dentistry uses medicine to help you stay calm and relaxed during dental treatments. Some people call it “sleep dentistry,” but most patients stay awake unless they are getting general anesthesia, which is a deeper type of sedation. The main goal is to make your dental visit more comfortable and less stressful.
We offer different types of sedation to match your needs. Whether you feel a little nervous or have dental fear, we can help you feel comfortable. We provide IV sedation and nitrous oxide to help you feel at ease during your appointment.
The Benefits of Sedation in Chicago and Skokie, IL
Sedation dentistry offers many helpful benefits, especially for people who feel nervous about going to the dentist. One of the biggest benefits is that it helps reduce anxiety. If you feel scared or worried about dental treatment, sedation can help you feel calm and relaxed during your visit.
Sedation is also helpful for people who have a low pain threshold. This means they may feel pain more easily than others. It can make dental work more comfortable by helping to block pain and increase relaxation.
Another great benefit is that sedation can help the dentist get more done in one visit. If you need a lot of dental work, sedation allows the dentist to treat multiple problems at the same time. That means you may need fewer visits overall, which can save you time and make the process easier.
Sedation dentistry is also helpful for patients who have a strong gag reflex, difficulty sitting still, or special needs. It creates a smoother, more comfortable experience for both the patient and the dentist.
Am I a Candidate?
Many people avoid visiting the dentist because they are anxious or fearful. Sedation dentistry can help these patients feel more at ease. With the help of sedation, they can receive the dental care they need without feeling stressed or scared.
Some patients have a very low pain threshold and find dental procedures uncomfortable. Sedation can help manage their discomfort and make the experience more bearable. It allows Dr. Chaiken to perform necessary treatments without causing undue pain.
Patients who need multiple or lengthy procedures can benefit from sedation dentistry. It can be tiring to sit through long dental appointments. Sedation can help these patients stay relaxed and calm, making it easier to complete extensive dental work in one visit.
Who Should Not Get Dental Sedation?
Dental sedation can help many people feel calm and comfortable at the dentist, but it’s not the right choice for everyone. Some people may have health conditions or other risks that make sedation unsafe. That’s why you should tell Dr. Chaiken about your full health history. Here are some groups of people who may not be good candidates for dental sedation:
Pregnant Women
If you’re pregnant, dental sedation may not be safe for your baby. Some sedation medicines can affect a baby’s growth and development. We recommend that you avoid sedation during the first and second trimesters. If you need dental treatment while pregnant, your dentist will find other ways to keep you comfortable and safe.
People with Breathing Problems
Certain breathing conditions, like asthma, chronic bronchitis, or sleep apnea, can make sedation more risky. Sedation can slow down your breathing, and if you already have trouble breathing, this could be dangerous. Our dentist may work with your doctor to find the best and safest way to care for your teeth.
People with Serious Health Problems
If you have health problems with your heart, liver, or kidneys, you may not be able to process sedation medicine safely. These organs help your body filter and break down medications. If they aren’t working well, sedation could stay in your body too long or cause unwanted side effects.
People Who Are Allergic to Sedation Medicine
Some people are allergic to the medicine used for sedation. An allergic reaction can cause serious problems like trouble breathing, swelling, or skin rashes. Let us know if you’ve had a bad reaction to sedation or anesthesia in the past before treatment.
People Taking Certain Medications
Some medications don’t mix well with sedation because it can cause side effects. Before treatment, give our dentist a full list of all medications you take, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. This helps Dr. Chaiken choose the safest option for you.
The Sedation Process
We want you to feel calm and comfortable during your dental visit. That’s why we offer sedation to help you relax. Sedation uses special medicine to reduce stress and anxiety, so you can feel at ease while we take care of your teeth. The level of sedation can be different for each person. Some patients stay awake but feel relaxed, while others may sleep through their treatment and wake up with no memory of the procedure.
Before we begin, Dr. Chaiken will talk with you about your needs and concerns. He’ll review your medical history, your current oral health, and how you usually feel during dental visits. This helps him choose the best sedation option for you. Our goal is to make sure you feel safe, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way.
IV Sedation
This sedation helps you sleep through your dental treatment. The medicine is given through a small needle in your arm or hand. You’ll feel very sleepy and relaxed, and most people don’t remember anything about the procedure
This is a good option if you feel very nervous about dental work or have a longer or more complex treatment. We’ll monitor you closely the entire time to make sure you are safe and comfortable.
Nitrous Oxide
Also called laughing gas, this is a mild type of sedation. You breathe it in through a small mask that fits over your nose. It helps you feel calm, relaxed, and even a little silly, but you stay awake the whole time.
After treatment, the effects wear off quickly, and you can go back to your normal day right away. Mild sedation is a great choice for kids and adults who feel a little anxious at the dentist.
Is Dental Sedation Safe?
Safety is a top priority at North Dental Professionals. Dr. Chaiken follows strict safety protocols to ensure that sedation dentistry is administered safely. The team is trained to manage any potential issues that may arise.
While sedation dentistry is generally safe, it is not without risks. Some possible side effects include drowsiness, nausea, and dry mouth. Dr. Chaiken will discuss these risks with you during your consultation. It’s important to follow all pre- and post-sedation instructions to minimize these side effects.
Ready to Embrace Stress-Free Dentistry?
Don’t let anxiety hinder your path to a healthier smile. Experience the transformation with sedation dentistry in Chicago, IL. If you have any questions or wish to schedule a consultation, reach out to our office today. Call Dr. Chaiken today at 708-274-4192. Our dental office serves Skokie, Chicago, and the West Loop.