Nitrous Oxide Sedation Joliet, IL

As a premier facility in Joliet, IL, MINT dentistry utilizes cutting-edge technology and techniques to help our patients get a sexy smile without discomfort or stress. We often consult with patients who wish to improve their smile but are hesitant because of dentophobia (fear of the dentist). If fear is holding you back from achieving your aesthetic goals, MINT dentistry wants to help. Our advanced practice in Joliet, IL offers nitrous oxide sedation for both routine cleanings and longer procedures to help patients remain comfortable during their appointments. Nitrous oxide (N₂O) gas is an effective sedation method that can help you to safely relax without feeling groggy after. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide sedation is offered by the board-certified doctors at MINT dentistry to help you feel more comfortable, but still be conscious. Schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified dentists to discuss adding nitrous oxide gas at your next visit.

In dentistry, nitrous oxide gas is one of the most popular sedation dentistry methods. Nitrous oxide sedation can be safely used on most patients, both adults and children. Before nitrous oxide gas is used, our team will ask about your current medications, medical history, and any questions or concerns you may have to ensure nitrous oxide sedation is a good option for you. N₂O sedation at MINT dentistry in Joliet, IL can be used for most procedures and is often combined with local anesthesia so you are relaxed and comfortable. Nitrous oxide gas can also be used for standard dental exams and cleanings if you have anxiety or fears about the dentist that makes these procedures stressful. Nitrous oxide gas may not be recommended if you have trouble breathing, extreme dentophobia, respiratory problems, or another serious medical condition that affects your breathing.

For your appointment, we will first invite you to settle into one of our massaging treatment chairs. Then, you can put on a pair of Beats headphones and MINT sunglasses to help you relax further. Once you are ready, the nitrous oxide gas will be administered through a nasal hood. As you gently inhale the gas, it should start to take effect quickly. A member of the MINT dentistry team will watch your response to the sedation and vital signs so that they can adjust the volume throughout your appointment to ensure you remain relaxed. You may notice tingling in your arms and legs, as well as a feeling of vibration, warmth, euphoria, or well-being as the sedation takes effect. Nitrous oxide is generally used along with local anesthesia, such as lidocaine, to numb your mouth in the areas being treated. After the procedure is finished, we will turn off the gas and the effects should quickly wear off.

Recovery from N₂O sedation is usually immediate. As the gas leaves your body after a few minutes, you should be able to drive and get back to your regular day. Most patients have no side effects, but you might experience temporary chills, sweating, headaches, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue. Contact our MINT team if you have concerning side effects. To lessen your chance of vomiting and nausea, our team suggests you eat a light snack before your visit and then wait at least three hours before you eat again.

If you're using insurance, our front office will speak to your carrier to confirm your coverage regarding sedation. Once we know this, we can estimate your remaining costs. For those who aren't using dental insurance, MINT dentistry in Joliet, IL accepts several payment methods, including medical financing, to make your treatment and N₂O sedation easier to afford. Our MINT dentistry team is committed to helping you get your dream smile as painlessly as possible. If you don't have dental insurance, ask your dentist about the MINT Discount Plan to help reduce the cost of your sedation and treatment.

If you skip routine dental appointments or are ignoring dental pain due to anxiety or fear of the dentist, sedation dentistry may be the right solution for your needs. Please make an appointment to learn more about nitrous oxide gas and other sedation methods at MINT dentistry. Our highly trained dental practitioners will address your concerns and answer any questions about the use of nitrous oxide dental sedation. Get in touch with our practice in Joliet, IL today!