201 Carter Drive, Suite A
Middletown, DE 19709
302.285.7645

Sedation Dentistry

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Dental fear is a very real and recognized condition. In its severest form, it is known medically as odontophobia. People who suffer from anxiety and fear related to dental care will likely avoid dental care for as long as possible, and the result is often not seeing a dentist until something is very wrong, which only serves to increase the anxiety.

Sedation dentistry is a new field that has emerged to help people with dental anxiety receive the comprehensive dentistry treatments they need to keep their mouth healthy and avoid uncomfortable conditions that can lead to increased stress and fear.

At Delaware Smile Center, we are devoted to caring for the smiles of everyone. We are one of only three dental offices in the state of Delaware to offer IV sedation dentistry to our patients, and both of our dentists are trained and certified in administering IV sedation.

How Does IV Sedation Dentistry Work?

Intravenous sedation dentistry works quickly to calm and relax you because the medication is administered directly into the bloodstream. You will feel very little except for a sense of calmness and deep relaxation. Some patients fall asleep during their care, but most remain awake. Even awake, your feelings of stress and fear will disappear. You do not lose consciousness, and you are able to follow directions and respond to questions. Many patients report that the next day they have very little memory of the actual procedure and are completely unaware of the usual sights, sounds, and smells from the dental office that are often fear-inducing.


“I absolutely love this place! Their sedation rates are much lower than other dental offices in Delaware and they make you feel so ensured that everything will be okay but it was BETTER than just okay!! They did an excellent job and took care of me and I wasn't in any pain afterward. THE BEST IN DELAWARE” - Taylor L.
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4.9 Stars from 674 Reviews

What are the Advantages of IV Sedation?

Different types of sedation dentistry are available, and we are able to tailor your sedation dentistry program specifically to your needs. While other forms of sedation dentistry are effective for many patients, IV sedation dentistry has additional advantages:

  • Our dentists have the ability to quickly adjust your dose to provide less or more of the medication as needed
  • The medication has a very fast onset so you don’t have to experience a period of stress while you wait for the sedation effect to “kick in.”
  • Some patients are troubled by a strong gag reflex that makes dentistry difficult or next-to-impossible. With IV sedation, this reflex is significantly reduced, allowing us to perform necessary procedures, such as dental implant surgery, and routine care.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

I haven’t seen a dentist in years, and I’m afraid that my dental care will hurt. Is sedation dentistry right for me?

Fear of the dentist is more common than you might think. We completely understand, and we will do everything possible to make your visits to Delaware Smile Center as comfortable and low-stress as possible. Call us today to schedule a consultation with one of our excellent and compassionate dental care providers. We will discuss the variety of sedation dentistry techniques available, including IV sedation dentistry, and help you determine which one is right for you. Dental care is important for your overall health, and we want you to feel happy and confident getting the care you need.

Planning Your Dental Appointment

If you need dental care and have dental anxiety, please call our office. We will work with you to create a plan that is right for you. On the day of your appointment, plan for a friend or family member to accompany you to our office. You will not be able to drive following sedation dentistry. A member of our staff will be with you at all times while you are sedated, and you will be carefully monitored. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and feel free to remove your shoes if this helps you feel more relaxed. Our goal is your total comfort so you can get the quality dental care you need for a healthy mouth.

Find out more about IV sedation dentistry and other forms of sedation dentistry by contacting us online or calling Delaware Smile Center at (302) 285-7645.