Sedation Dentistry – Lincoln, NE
No More Dental Anxiety
Many patients avoid going to the dentist even if they really need to because of anxiety, and that’s why we take comfort so seriously here at Pioneer Greens Dentistry. If just the thought of dental care is enough to make you feel nervous, then we’re ready to help with sedation dentistry in Lincoln, NE. These safe and gentle techniques can prevent physical discomfort and calm racing thoughts to ensure our patients feel at ease throughout their entire treatment. To learn more about how we can help you take care of your teeth without stress, give us a call today.
Why Choose Pioneer Greens Dentistry for Sedation Dentistry?
- ·Sedation Available for Any Procedure
- ·Gentle Enough for Children, Strong Enough for Adults
- ·Kind, Friendly, & Understanding Team
IV Sedation
Patient comfort is a top priority for the Pioneer Greens team. That's why we are proud to be one of the only general dental practices in Lincoln that has a provider licensed to offer this specialized service for patients in need! IV sedation is one of the strongest methods of conscious sedation available, and we have the expertise to deliver it. Dr. Shirk will administer the medication directly into the bloodstream for a more potent and fast-acting effect, making your appointment easier and less stressful.
What is IV Sedation?
As the name implies, a powerful sedative is given through an IV and put into the bloodstream. This delivery method is particularly effective because of its strength and rapid impact. In fact, within minutes you should feel it kick in. Because you’ll likely feel the sedation’s effects on you for the rest of the day, you will need to be prepared to have a trusted friend or family member drop you off and pick you up from your visit. Ideally, they should also monitor you afterward until you return to feeling normal.
Who is a Good Candidate for IV Sedation?
We typically recommend IV sedation for patients who are undergoing more extensive and invasive procedures, or for those with severe dental phobia. When used by a highly trained provider like Dr. Shirk, even children can safely receive this sedative. Although this sedation method doesn’t put the patient to sleep, it often leaves them unable to recall details from the appointment. In other words, you may not remember exactly what happened.
If you are concerned about an upcoming procedure and would like to explore IV sedation in further detail, don’t hesitate to let us know. After learning more about your medical history and other information, we’d be happy to talk you through this type and help you determine if it’s the best fit for your needs and preferences.
The Benefits of IV Sedation
In addition to its potency and quick impact, another benefit of IV sedation is that, unlike oral conscious sedation, the effects can be adjusted if needed throughout the procedure. As a result, if you require more or less of the medication, we can ensure your absolute comfort and safety. Again, it will likely take a few hours after the appointment ends to be back to your normal reaction time, so you should rest until the medication has faded from your system.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For patients who experience moderate to severe dental anxiety, or those who need a more extensive procedure, we can prescribe them medication to take at home on the day of their appointment. That way, by the time they actually arrive at our dental office, they’ll already be deeply relaxed. Most patients stay awake during their visit, but many end up dozing off as well. Afterward, many have little to no memory of their appointment, making it almost feel like a dream. You will need to be prepared to have a trusted friend or family member drop you off and pick you up from your visit with this calming option.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Perfect for calming minor dental nervousness, nitrous oxide sedation can help patients of all ages “take the edge off” so they can easily relax during their appointments. The colorless, odorless gas is sometimes called laughing gas, not because it actually makes you laugh but because you will feel happy, light, and slightly numb all over. While under its effects, you’ll remain awake and aware of your surroundings, but you will be more content.
Who is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
In addition to those who suffer from mild dental anxiety, nitrous oxide is a great option for someone who needs help sitting still for a while. This medication is so gentle that it can even be used on children with basically no significant side effects or lasting impairment. The dosage can be adjusted, allowing us to increase or decrease the concentration of nitrous oxide delivery and ensuring a comfortable experience from beginning to end.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small nasal mask that stays on throughout the entire appointment. Within minutes, the patient should feel lighter, calmer, and more content. We can raise or lower the dosage as needed as we work. Once the procedure is over and the mask is removed, a patient will feel completely normal after just a few minutes. In fact, they should be able to drive and continue with their day afterward without supervision.
Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide
Unlike with other forms of sedation, the effects of nitrous oxide do not last long after the nasal mask is taken away. You will not require someone to drive you home or watch you until the effects wear off. As a result, nitrous oxide is extremely convenient for busy patients who want to make their dental appointments more pleasant and less stressful.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Can My Sedative Be Adjusted During the Appointment?
Certain people can respond differently to medications, meaning that sometimes a slightly stronger dose of the sedative is necessary to keep the patient comfortable. The concentration of nitrous oxide and IV sedation can be increased or decreased during the appointment. In fact, our team will regularly check in on you and your vitals to make sure you’re comfortable and safe. Before we prescribe oral conscious sedation, we will learn more about your medical history to make sure it will meet your needs.
What Are Other Reasons to Consider Sedation Dentistry?
In addition to those who have anxiety about dental visits, sedation dentistry is a great option for people who struggle with a strong gag reflex, those who have a hard time sitting still for long periods of time, and those who are getting a longer procedure done. So even if you aren’t afraid of the dentist, it could help your appointment go more smoothly and comfortably! Have an honest discussion with Dr. Shirk about what you need to have a positive, productive experience.
What Causes Dental Anxiety or Phobia?
Fear of the dental office may stem from several sources. Bad past experiences or stories from others may stir anxiety, and TV and movies tend to portray dentistry unfavorably for entertainment. Regardless of the reason, our team at Pioneer Greens Dentistry aims to put fears to rest not just through sedation but also through our compassionate, friendly, and personal care that will put you at ease throughout your time with us.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Kids?
The mildest form of sedation, nitrous oxide, is gentle enough that children can safely relax with no negative side effects whatsoever. Only in rare cases it can cause nausea, but overall, you can rely on this sedative to ease your child into a state of relaxation. Older children who are capable of taking oral medication may qualify for oral conscious sedation for longer procedures or for more extreme cases of anxiety. Be sure you share your child’s pertinent medical information with us so that we can use the appropriate sedation method for their needs.