Dental Sedation for Special Needs

Sedation dentistry has made it quite easy for dentists to carry out dental procedures. It has also helped reduce dental anxiety in patients. Dental sedation has thus become a boon for both dentists and patients. 

Our team at Stone Dental Group – SE Chicago Dentistry located in Chicago, Illinois, is made up of highly skilled dentists who know how to administer dental sedation safely to our patients. You can rely on us to provide the best care for your teeth and dental needs.

Types of Dental Sedation

While it is safe for everyone, the type and level of sedation administered will depend on the patient’s needs. Patients with special needs, children, and pregnant women require more attention and support during dental procedures. 

Patients who suffer from developmental disorders, behavioral problems, physical disabilities, and genetic disorders also need extra care. 

Below are the four main types of dental sedation:

• Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most commonly used type of dental sedation. It is recommended for patients with dental phobia, anxiety, and a low pain threshold. 

Nitrous oxide is safe for people of all age groups and regardless of their medical history. However, this type of sedation is continuously administered through a mask. So, if the patient has a fear of masks or problems with understanding instructions, this is not the best option.

• Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves the patient taking a prescribed sedative pill before the dental procedure. Patients who find it hard to sit still for a long time or have a disability can opt for this method. 

Oral sedation makes the patient forget some parts of the procedure or even all. It is crucial to review the medical history of the patient before using this method.

• Intravenous Sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation allows the dentist to administer the sedative directly into the patient’s bloodstream during the procedure. It is ideal for people who have trouble controlling their movements and need a lot of dental procedures to be done. 

• General Anesthesia 

General anesthesia makes the patient fully unconscious during the dental procedure. It is slightly more risky than other methods and, thus, rarely used. 

All patients are different, and so are their requirements. That is why, when you first visit our dentists, they will take time to understand your needs, and only then recommend the level and type of sedation suitable for you. 

To learn more about dental sedation for special needs, call Stone Dental Group – SE Chicago Dentistry at (773) 880-5080 or visit our dental clinic at 2845 N Sheridan Rd #914, Chicago, IL 60657.