Your comfort is our priority with sedation dentistry options to ease dental fear and promote utmost relaxation

At Smile Today Dental, we are privileged and excited to be able to offer yet another complement to our famously warm manner and inviting surroundings in Glenview, Illinois: sedation dentistry. Relaxing sedatives help us to support the most comfortable, non-intimidating, and convenient experience at our practice. 

Additionally, whereas other practices may only offer one type of minimal sedation, our dentists are knowledgeable and experienced with sedative options. So, Drs Evelyn Kidonakis, Jinyoung Yoo, and Amir Danesh can tailor the type of medication, method, and other specifics to each patient based on factors such as: 

• Patient age
• Level of anxiety of fear
• Comorbidities and medical history 
• Existing prescription medications and other drugs or supplements
• Nature of upcoming dental service or treatment
• Length of upcoming treatment 
• Other potential challenges to comfortable and efficient care; for instance, bad gag reflex or fidgety patients 

Nitrous oxide is generally the mildest form of sedation dentistry. Most people know it as “laughing gas.” The relaxing gas is administered via a small nasal mask. It takes effect quickly but, due to the neutralizing properties of oxygen, the drowsiness associated with sedation quickly wears off. Patients remain in control and can answer questions and talk to our team. However, they are not triggered by any sensations, sounds, smells, or sights throughout treatment. Laughing gas is so safe that many patients of all ages can benefit from its calming powers. 

Oral conscious sedation sounds fancy but is just a medical way of referring to taking a pill by mouth (orally) to induce relaxing effects. As noted with the word “conscious,” patients generally remain awake but entirely at ease. They may feel sleepy or doze off. The prescribed type of pill depends on what we find when evaluating your medical history and other factors. 

We provide clear instructions on how and when to take the medication before your appointment. It is essential that you arrange transport to and from our office, as this method can cause lingering drowsiness, which would make it unsafe for patients to operate vehicles or machinery. This form of sedation is safe and easy to monitor. It may be appropriate for patients with more severe dental anxiety or apprehension and patients who are scheduled for more prolonged or more complex procedures. 

At Smile Today Dental, your health, safety, and comfort are our priority. If dental fear has been keeping you away from the necessary care for your healthiest smile and self, call us today at 847-440-3331 to schedule your appointment. It is our privilege to care for you and get you on the road to better health.