Does the idea of going to the dentist make your heart race and your palms sweat? Do you postpone even routine dental check-ups because you're just too afraid to go? Then, sedation dentistry from Hughes Dental Arts Centre in Herrin, IL may be for you. Fully credentialed in IV sedation, Dr. Christopher Hughes and his dedicated team deliver the care you need while completely eliminating the fear factor.

What causes dental anxiety

Many people fear dental procedures for a variety of reasons. Many adults avoid the dentist completely because they feel so anxious.

Reasons for their fear can include:

• Past bad experiences at a dental office
• Dislike of needles, drills or other dental instruments
• Claustrophobia
• Inability to sit still for extended periods of time
• Apprehension about pain
• Embarrassment over the condition of their teeth and gums

The way out

You can handle your dental fear. In fact, Dr. Hughes can help you eliminate it completely with his kind attitude, careful explanations  and  gentle touch. Additionally, Dr. Hughes offers local anesthetic to numb areas of the mouth, and for extensive dental procedures or for people who are very nervous, he recommends IV sedation.

IV sedation is a fully monitored way to deliver medication which allows the patient to relax or even sleep through his or her procedures. To qualify for IV sedation dentistry in Herrin, Dr. Hughes will review your medical history and current medications. He'll also ask you to bring an adult relative or friend along to drive you home after your treatments.

During your procedures

Your vital signs (breathing, heart rate and oxygen levels) will be monitored carefully. You'll relax in the dental chair, and the dentist will introduce your anti-anxiety medication into a thin needle inserted into your arm. Your level of consciousness and comfort will be watched as well, and the medication may be adjusted up or down as needed.

When your treatments are complete, you'll wake up easily. However, you likely will have little memory of your dental procedures. You'll go home to rest accompanied by your adult driver.

What procedures qualify?

Your dentist may use IV sedation for most any preventive, restorative or cosmetic treatment. Much depends on what triggers your anxiety and of course, on how complex your procedures are. Dr. Hughes fully explains IV sedation to his patients ahead of time so they fully understand what medication they will receive and how they will feel during and after their treatments.

Forget the stress

And, get the healthy smile you deserve. If sedation dentistry in Herrin, IL sounds like something you wish to explore, call Hughes Dental Arts Centre for a personal consultation: (618) 993-3100.