Feeling comfortable at the dentist is crucial to your long-term dental choices and dental health. At the dental offices of Dr. Shane Nelson in Overland Park, KS, we want our patients to have the best dental advice so that they can make the most suitable dental choices. Keep reading to find out what you need to know about dental sedation.

What Is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation is an option that patients can use to help with anxiety during dental procedures. There are various types of dental sedation available.

It is important to note that dental sedation is not part of your pain management plan. Instead, dental sedation is an option available to you to help with dental anxiety.

Types of Dental Sedation

Let’s look at a few of the dental sedation options Dr. Shane Nelson can make available for you.

• Nitrous Oxide– Commonly referred to as “Laughing Gas”.  This is one of the most commonly used forms of dental sedation. Nitrous is used to help patients relax. Patients remain conscious. 
• Oral Sedation– Oral sedation is an option that can be used for patients who experience moderate to severe dental anxiety. Oral sedation consists of taking a prescription-strength dose of a sedative before your dental procedure begins. You will be awake but notably relaxed. Some patients require oral sedation along with laughing gas. Oral sedation requires someone to drive you to and from the appointment. 
• IV Sedation– IV sedation is commonly used during intensive oral surgery. IV sedation can be administered as “Twilight Sedation”.  This is a conscious sedation, meaning you are conscious but not very aware of what is happening. For major dental surgery, you will be given general anesthesia. You will be unconscious during your procedure.

What Type of Sedation Will I Need?

The type of sedation you will need is based mainly on the procedure you are having done and the level of anxiety or discomfort you experience during dental procedures.

For more information about the best dental sedation options for you, you will want to discuss your procedure and your options with your dentist.

If you would like to learn more about our services, please contact Dr. Shane Nelson‘s dental offices in Overland Park, KS, by calling (913) 297-7800.

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