If you have a fear of dental work, you are not alone. It is estimated that nearly three out of four American adults experience some degree of dental anxiety. With oral conscious sedation, you can receive the dental care you need while feeling calm and relaxed. Dr. Shane Nelson, dentist in Overland Park, KS, is a member of the D.O.C.S. Oral Sedation program and also offers nitrous oxide sedation.
How sedation dentistry works
There are different kinds of sedation dentistry, but the overarching goal for all of them is the same: to keep you calm and relaxed while you receive dental treatment. At Dentistry by Shane Nelson, we offer the latest in oral conscious sedation so you can receive your dental care without the anxiety. With oral conscious sedation, you are given a pill to take about 30 minutes before your procedure, after which you will start feeling safe, calm, and relaxed. You will remain conscious, but aware, so you can follow directions as needed during the procedure. However, in many cases, you will have little to no recollection of your time in the dental chair – afterwards, you may feel like you were asleep during your treatment. If you use oral conscious sedation, you will need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after your procedure. As another option, some patients can feel comfortably relaxed by simply inhaling nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas.” This gas is inhaled through a small mask and wears off quickly so you can typically drive yourself home.
Not just for dental fears
Sedation dentistry is not just useful for patients who have dental anxieties. It can also be used for patients who:
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Need a procedure that will take a long time
- Want to get multiple procedures done in the same visit for more rapid results
Dr. Shane Nelson is always here to discuss your dental care needs without judgement, including any anxieties that you have about your treatment. If you suffer from dental phobia, there is no need to delay getting the care you need for a healthy smile! Learn more about sedation by calling our experienced team at Dentistry by Shane Nelson today at (913) 297-7800.
