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

IV sedation is one of the strongest methods of conscious sedation that we offer. We typically recommend it for patients who are undergoing more extensive and invasive procedures, or for those with severe dental phobia. Dr. Shirk will administer the medication directly into the bloodstream for a more potent and fast-acting effect. Another benefit of IV sedation is that, unlike oral conscious sedation, the effects can be adjusted if needed throughout the procedure. Because you’ll likely feel the impact of the sedation 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.

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! If you are concerned about an upcoming procedure and would like to explore sedation dentistry in further detail, don’t hesitate to let us know. We’d be happy to talk you through each type and help you determine the best fit for your needs and preferences.

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.