Sedation Dentistry in Edwardsville, IL

Do you dread the thought of dental visits or put off routine oral care due to anxiety? You’re not alone—dental anxiety is a common and understandable reality for millions of people, and sedation dentistry can be the solution.

At Hite Family Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort and peace of mind in all we do. People experience anxiety for different reasons. Whether it’s fear of pain, a past traumatic experience, or stress of the unknown, we tailor our sedation options to fit your needs. With nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, we can help you experience a calm, stress-free visit.

The Impact of Dental Anxiety on Oral Health

Avoiding the dentist due to anxiety can have serious consequences for your oral and overall health. Without regular care, dental issues such as decay, gum disease, and infections can progress, leading to pain, tooth loss, and even systemic health problems. We know you want a healthy smile, and sedation dentistry offers a way to receive the necessary treatment comfortably to protect your oral health and well-being.

Before offering sedation, our team carefully reviews your medical and prescription history to ensure the safest approach for your needs. We take every precaution to ensure a safe and pleasant experience.

• Nitrous Oxide — Also called laughing gas or silly gas, this mild sedative is inhaled through a small mask that covers your nose. Nitrous is perfect for those with mild to moderate anxiety. As you inhale, you’ll experience a welcome sense of relaxation and calm. You will remain fully awake but in a drowsy, dreamy state. Nitrous oxide’s effects wear off quickly, so you can resume normal activities after your appointment.
• Oral Sedation — Patients with deeper anxiety benefit from oral conscious sedation, which involves taking a pill an hour before your appointment. The goal is for you to feel very relaxed by the time you sit in the chair for your procedure. Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend another dose when you arrive. You will remain awake but drowsy and have little memory of the procedure. You will need a driver to get you to and from your appointment safely.
• IV Sedation — We recommend intravenous (IV) sedation for patients with deeper anxiety. IV sedation puts you in a semi-conscious state; your dental team can communicate with you, but you'll be blissfully unaware of the activity around you. Many patients sleep through their procedures with little or no memory of the appointment. Our experienced dentists are trained in IV sedation, and a nurse is present to monitor your safety throughout.

Don't let dental anxiety prevent you from having the healthy, confident smile you want. We offer safe sedation dentistry in Edwardsville, IL, and would welcome the opportunity to show you how we can help and support you. At Hite Family Dentistry, we empathize with your fears and are committed to providing a stress-free, comfortable environment where we can serve your needs.

Schedule your consultation for sedation dentistry in Edwardsville, IL, today, and let us help you protect your smile in comfort and confidence.