Welcome, patients! Wadas Dental Center is now Contemporary Dental of Indiana. Same dentists, same team, same two offices in Munster and Crown Point. Your records and appointments came with us, so there is nothing you need to do. Book your next visit
Dental anxiety is very common and afflicts almost 75 percent of adults in the U.S. More than 25 percent of those experience severe anxiety or phobia that precludes going to the dentist, even for minor issues. For those who have dental phobia, it can be sufficiently off-putting that it adversely affects their overall health as well as their dental health because they don't get the dental treatments they need due to their anxiety. Since anxiety causes stress, and stress has a deleterious effect on the body, dental phobia extends far beyond the dentist's chair.
Research has correlated good oral health with good physical health, so maintaining good oral health is essential to your overall health and well-being. However, stress adversely impacts your health, so what's the solution? IV sedation has helped thousands of people maintain their good oral health while alleviating the stress and anxiety of the dental chair.
IV sedation is a form of conscious sedation commonly used in dentistry. Your dentist will administer the medication you need through an IV inserted into a vein. Because the medication is delivered directly into a vein, it takes effect almost immediately, and your dentist can monitor and adjust it throughout the procedure.
IV sedation isn't the same as general anesthesia, and you'll be awake throughout the procedure. You'll be able to respond to questions, but you'll be very relaxed and may have little or no memory of the procedure.
Most people are good candidates for IV sedation, but your dentist will ask about your medical history, previous procedures, medications you take, over-the-counter supplements, and your lifestyle habits. Some dentists recommend getting clearance from your medical doctor before undergoing IV sedation. Depending on your responses, your dentist will determine if IV sedation is appropriate for you. If not, we have other options available.
Many patients are good candidates for the IV sedation process, especially those who:
If you'd like more information on IV sedation, call our Munster office, and we'll gladly answer your questions.
We'll provide personalized instructions before your appointment, so you know exactly what to expect and what you need to do. The instructions will cover eating, drinking, taking medications, and arranging transportation.
You must follow the instructions carefully so that your procedure goes well. You'll be unable to drive, make important decisions, or operate machinery for the remainder of the day. Please arrange transportation home after your procedure; we cannot let you drive yourself home.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves to facilitate IV placement. Please avoid jewelry, contact lenses, makeup, lotions, and perfumes; also remove nail polish.
Before we begin your dental procedure, we'll insert the IV and start the sedative. We'll monitor your breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level throughout the procedure, and your dentist will adjust it as necessary.
After your procedure is complete, you'll be moved to a recovery area until you're ready to leave with your driver. You'll be drowsy afterward, so we recommend that you remain at home and recuperate for the duration of the day. Be sure to follow all your postoperative instructions.
You'll need to remain hydrated after your procedure, so drink an adequate amount of water when your dentist says you can. If you need pain medication, we'll provide that, and be sure to take it as prescribed.
You'll likely be on a soft-food diet for up to ten days afterward, and you'll have limited physical activity for the same period. At your follow-up appointment, your surgeon will advise you when you can resume your normal activities and medications.
If you notice any fever, severe bleeding, or prolonged discomfort or pain, call our office immediately so we can help you.
Don't let fear of needed dental procedures adversely impact your oral health and your physical health. We offer many options to manage your stress and discomfort, so ask us about them. IV sedation is just one of the ways we can help you maintain good oral health without added stress. If you need IV sedation dentistry, we're among the best in the area, and we know you'll be happy with your treatment.
