Sedation Dentistry in Wausau, WI

We know that many people experience fear and anxiety at the thought of a dental visit with symptoms ranging from mild anxiety to outright phobia. As many as 1-in-7 people report that they have avoided regular dental care because of anxiety. Unfortunately, these people may often avoid care until they are experiencing serious dental problems, which can be costly, time-intensive, and uncomfortable to treat. This validates their fear and creates a vicious cycle.

Our philosophy is that everyone deserves to have healthy teeth and an attractive smile through regular preventive dental care – even people who are afraid to see the dentist. Because we believe in this so firmly, we offer sedation dentistry options to treat even those who have a dental phobia. All of our sedation dentistry options are safe, and Dr. Kim was trained at UCLA by Dr.  John A. Yagiela who is internationally recognized authority in dental anesthesia and is skilled in the use of each. We want every visit to our office to be comfortable, relaxing, and pleasant, and we will work with you to make sure that you feel safe and confident in our office.

Nitrous Oxide

Many of our patients know nitrous oxide by its other name – “laughing gas.” A mild sedative, nitrous oxide is a safe and reliable. Dentists have been using it for decades to help relax patients during treatment.

The gas is administered through a mask, similar to oxygen. As you breathe in the mixture of nitrous oxide gas and oxygen, you will feel relaxed and even euphoric. Nitrous oxide produces a warm, tingling sensation and dulls other sensations, including pain. 

Unlike other forms of sedation, the effects of nitrous oxide dissipate immediately as soon as the gas is removed. You will return to full alertness after just a few deep breaths.

Oral Conscious Sedation

If you prefer oral conscious sedation, you will be prescribed a medication that you take about an hour before your scheduled appointment. The medication will then take full effect as your procedure is about to begin, relaxing you and reducing all sensation. Unlike IV sedation, you will remain conscious throughout your procedure and alert enough to talk to us and answer questions.

Unlike nitrous oxide, the effects of oral conscious sedation linger following your appointment. If you choose to receive your dental care using this sedation option, you will need to arrange for transportation to and from your dental appointment, and you will also need to plan to take it easy for the rest of the day.

IV Sedation

Wausau dentist Dr. James Kim is one of a select few general dentists in the state of Wisconsin to offer IV sedation dentistry. This option is perfect for anyone who is experiencing a true dental phobia or who needs extensive dental work.

IV sedation dentistry is very safe, and Dr. Kim is skilled and experienced in its use. Dr. Kim provides a moderate sedation that relaxes you during your procedure and results in minimal memory of your treatment. Like oral conscious sedation, you will need someone to transport you to and from your appointment, and you should plan to relax after your appointment until the medication has completely worn off.

Contact Our Wausau, WI Office Today!

To learn more about sedation dentistry and how it can help you, please contact our office today to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Kim.