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Sedation Options

Say Goodbye To Dental Fear

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Take the Stress Out of Dental Visits With Our Sedation Options in Wilmington

You deserve to feel comfortable during your dental appointment. Our practice goes the extra mile to put you at ease. Our sedation options in Wilmington can reduce your stress and improve your comfort level. By opting for sedation, you can:

  • Achieve your dream smile by confidently pursuing necessary treatments
  • Feel relaxed during complex or lengthy procedures
  • Minimize your anxiety about the condition of your smile
  • Focus on getting the dental care that you deserve
  • Stay on top of your oral health with regular dental visits

No insurance? That's okay with us. Join our Membership Club for savings on your treatments.

Dentist in white coat consulting with female patient seated in dental chair in bright clinic room

Feel Fully Relaxed with IV Sedation

While Dr. Shumate ensures you won't feel a thing by numbing you with local anesthesia, sedation can help minimize your nerves. Whether it's for a lengthy procedure or a complex treatment, sedation is available.

If you struggle with dental anxiety or need multiple procedures completed in one visit, Dr. Shumate provides IV sedation to help you feel fully at ease throughout your treatment. He will deliver the medication through a vein, offering a deeper state of relaxation.

It's an excellent option if you have a strong gag reflex, high dental anxiety, or are getting longer or more complex treatment like dental surgery. IV sedation is safely administered and closely monitored for your peace of mind. You will need to arrange for a ride home and will probably want to take it easy for at least a few hours.

Throughout the use of IV sedation, we will closely monitor you and ensure your safety and comfort. You remain conscious but deeply relaxed, with little or no memory of the visit afterward.

If you've avoided dental care in the past, this option can help you get back on track without the stress.

You Can Also Relax With Laughing Gas & Comforting Amenities

In addition to IV sedation, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas). This mild sedative leaves you feeling light and relaxed. We administer it through a comfortable mask to take the edge off any nerves. The effects wear off quickly after your procedure is finished. You'll be able to drive yourself home and resume normal activity right away.

Our practice also has cozy amenities to ease your anxiety. You can feel calmer with a weighted blanket, known to minimize stress and anxiety, and headphones to block out the sounds of equipment.

If there is another way our team can help you feel at ease, let us know. We will do what we can to meet your needs. Ask about our sedation options in Wilmington at your next visit.

5 out of 5 stars - 682 votes

5 Stars (682 Reviews)

Read Why Patients Love Us

Patients appreciate the special care they receive from our team. Check out what they have to say!

5

I went in for my 6 month cleaning yesterday. The hygienist, Lindsey, was running behind, but worked very efficiently to perform my cleaning. She was thorough, and did a great job. The office personnel is always friendly and welcoming. Dr. Shumate is kind and understanding. I’ve been going to...
I went in for my 6 month cleaning yesterday. The hygienist, Lindsey, was running behind, but worked very efficiently to perform my cleaning. She was thorough, and did a great job. The office personnel is always friendly and welcoming. Dr. Shumate is kind and understanding. I’ve been going to their office for nearly 10 years. If there are ever any issues, they work well to resolve whatever needs attention,

5

The team at Porters Neck Dentistry is always amazing. They are professional, friendly, courteous and always find a way to address any urgent Dental needs I have had. The care my family gets is superb and I would highly highly recommend them.

5

Dr Shumate recently capped 2 of my front teeth. He did a beautiful job with them and went over and above what others dentists have done. I am so very happy with them!! His staff is kind and warm and caring. My husband and I have been going to him for several years and we highly recommend him.

5

Dr. Lauren is an excellent addition to Porter’s Neck Dentistry. I had a very nervous teen getting her first cavity filled. Dr. Lauren took time to answer every one of her questions seriously and reassuringly. She worked quick! My daughter left smiling and feeling confident!

5

This office was wonderful. Staff was friendly and patient with a very nervous daughter. They took the time to explain every procedure and the treatment plan for the future. Dr. Shumate made my daughter feel at ease with his engaging manner. Thank you!

5

Very nice staff. Could not work on my son due to age and was able to refer to another office and was very helpful in doing so. I am horrified of dentist however I will be making an appointment here for myself.

5

My experience here was excellent. They really care about people. They take your oral hygiene and health seriously. The doctor started my care right away to get the ball rolling with my dental issue. He is very professional and friendly. You can tell he is a person that really cares about his...
My experience here was excellent. They really care about people. They take your oral hygiene and health seriously. The doctor started my care right away to get the ball rolling with my dental issue. He is very professional and friendly. You can tell he is a person that really cares about his patients and that goes a long way. I would recommend family friends and anyone that's looking for a good experience with dental care.

5

If you’re looking for a dentist, this is the place to go! I waited years to get much needed work done because of allergic reactions at a prior dentist. I also had HIGH anxiety. The entire office is very caring, patient and managed my treatment unconventionally, to consider my allergies and...
If you’re looking for a dentist, this is the place to go! I waited years to get much needed work done because of allergic reactions at a prior dentist. I also had HIGH anxiety. The entire office is very caring, patient and managed my treatment unconventionally, to consider my allergies and anxiety. This is the ONLY dentist I’ll go to.

Patient Resources

Commonly Asked Questions About Sedation Options

Does sedation dentistry work for most patients?
We have found that one or more of our sedation options can help any patient feel more comfortable. If you're nervous about coming in, you can select from various sedation methods. We'll discuss each choice thoroughly, answer any questions you have, and help you choose the best option.
What sedation options are available to me?

There are two sedation options available for you. One is inhaled sedation using laughing gas, and the other is IV sedation, which creates a deeply relaxed, dreamlike state. The strength of sedation can be mild or deep, so these choices work well for patients who feel nervous about dental care.

Can I eat or drink before sedation?
When receiving laughing gas (nitrous oxide), you can generally eat a small meal a few hours before your visit. For IV sedation, though, you'll need to avoid eating for a longer time, usually six to eight hours before your treatment. We'll provide clear instructions before your procedure. Following these rules is key to your safety and the success of the sedation.