Dental anxiety is common, but it shouldn’t stop you from getting the care you need. At Port City Dentistry in Wilmington, NC, we offer sedation dentistry to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable during their dental procedures. Whether you experience mild nervousness or severe dental phobia, our sedation options can make your visit stress-free. Dr. Jillian Wolske and our experienced team are here to provide safe and effective sedation tailored to your needs.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental treatments. Unlike general anesthesia, which renders patients completely unconscious, sedation dentistry allows you to remain conscious and responsive while feeling at ease. Depending on the level of sedation, some patients may have little to no memory of their procedure.
At Port City Dentistry, we offer different sedation options, including:
- Nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas) for mild relaxation
- Oral conscious sedation with prescription medication for moderate anxiety
- IV sedation for deeper relaxation in more complex procedures
By reducing anxiety and discomfort, sedation dentistry makes it easier for patients to receive necessary dental care without fear or stress.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Many patients can benefit from sedation dentistry, including those who:
- Experience dental anxiety or phobia
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Struggle with sitting still for long periods
- Require multiple or complex dental treatments in one visit
- Have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia
If you’ve been avoiding the dentist due to fear or discomfort, sedation dentistry at Port City Dentistry in Wilmington, NC can help you regain confidence in your oral health.
Types of Sedation We Offer
1. Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a mask, providing a calming effect within minutes. This option is ideal for patients with mild anxiety and wears off quickly, allowing you to resume daily activities immediately after treatment.
2. Oral Conscious Sedation
For patients who need deeper relaxation, oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before the appointment. While you’ll remain conscious, you may feel drowsy and have little memory of the procedure.
3. IV Sedation
IV sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation and is administered directly into the bloodstream by a trained professional. This option is best for patients with severe dental anxiety or those undergoing extensive procedures such as full-mouth reconstruction, implants, or extractions.
Why Choose Port City Dentistry for Sedation Dentistry?
At Port City Dentistry, we prioritize patient comfort and safety. Dr. Jillian Wolske and our skilled team ensure that every sedation procedure is administered with care and precision. Here’s why Wilmington residents trust us for sedation dentistry:
- Experienced sedation professionals trained in safe administration
- Customized sedation plans based on your level of anxiety and procedure type
- Comprehensive dental care with a focus on patient comfort
- Modern technology for safe and effective treatments
No matter your level of dental anxiety, our team is dedicated to making your visit as stress-free as possible.
Common Procedures That Use Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry can be used for a variety of dental treatments, including:
- Dental implants for permanent tooth replacement
- Root canal therapy to save an infected tooth
- Extractions for removing damaged or impacted teeth
- Full mouth reconstruction for restoring function and aesthetics
- Scaling and root planing for advanced gum disease treatment
- Sure Smile orthodontic treatments for straighter teeth
If you’re unsure whether sedation dentistry is right for your procedure, contact us today at (910) 613-5635 to discuss your options.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes! Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective option when administered by experienced professionals like Dr. Wolske and our team. Before any sedation procedure, we review your medical history and discuss any concerns to ensure the best possible experience.
Common safety precautions include:
- Monitoring vital signs throughout the procedure
- Using the lowest effective dose of sedative medication
- Providing detailed pre- and post-care instructions for a smooth recovery
If you have questions about sedation safety, our team is happy to provide more information and address your concerns.
What to Expect During Your Sedation Appointment
- Consultation: We’ll discuss your dental needs, medical history, and the best sedation option for you.
- Preparation: Depending on the sedation type, we’ll provide instructions, such as fasting before IV sedation or taking medication ahead of your appointment.
- Procedure: You’ll be made comfortable in the dental chair, and the sedation will begin. Our team will monitor you closely throughout your treatment.
- Recovery: For nitrous oxide, effects wear off quickly, allowing you to resume normal activities. Oral and IV sedation require someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Schedule Your Sedation Dentistry Consultation in Wilmington, NC
If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you need, sedation dentistry at Port City Dentistry can make your next visit stress-free. Our compassionate team is here to ensure your comfort every step of the way.
Ready to experience anxiety-free dentistry? Call (910) 613-5635 to schedule your consultation today or visit our office at 4700 New Centre Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405.
Let us help you achieve a healthier, happier smile—without the stress!