Many patients can't imagine themselves feeling relaxed and at ease during a dental procedure, but it's possible! At the Kansas Center for Sedation Dentistry (which operates within Heck Family Dentistry of Lawrence, we're proud to be a certified provider of these essential services in Lawrence. Multiple options for sedation dentistry in Lawrence, KS are available in one convenient location, from mild nitrous oxide to more involved IV sedation. Additionally, we have all the proper monitoring devices, emergency equipment, and medications to ensure your safety and comfort. Our goal is to remove anything preventing you from getting a healthy mouth or enjoying the best quality of life.
Why Choose The Kansas Center for Sedation Dentistry for Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation Available for Both Children & Adults
DOCS Sedation Certified Dentists
Friendly Team That Listens to Patients
Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
Before your visit, you’ll be given some medication along with instructions on when to take it. It could be the night before your visit, or it could be at a set time during the day of the actual appointment; it all depends on your unique circumstances. Once the medication kicks in, you’ll be in a highly relaxed state where you won’t care about what is going on around you. You may even be relaxed to the point where you doze off (although you’ll easily be woken up).
What Is Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is a form of sedation dentistry that allows even the most nervous patients to enjoy an anxiety-free appointment thanks to a small pill. Once the effects kick in, you’ll enter a deep state of relaxation, while still being conscious and able to respond to verbal commands and questions. Although, many patients are so comfortable that they end up dozing off while in the treatment chair! Don’t worry, we can easily wake you and will monitor your vitals throughout your entire visit to ensure your safety.
Who Should Consider Oral Conscious Sedation?
Oral conscious sedation is an effective, safe option for most healthy adults. In fact, if you’ve been postponing treatment or struggle to remain calm even during a simple cleaning, it may just be the solution you’ve been looking for! Talk to our sedation dentist if you:
Are uncomfortable in the dentist’s office
Have difficulty calling to make an appointment due to fear
Can’t stand the smells and sounds of the dental office
Are delaying treatment due to dental-related anxiety
Are fearful due to a previous bad experience
Struggle with jaw, back, or neck pain in the treatment chair
Have a strong gag reflex
Are afraid of needles
Benefits of Oral Conscious Sedation
The anxiety-relieving benefits of oral conscious sedation are substantial alone. However, there are additional advantages to consider, such as:
It allows more dentistry to be completed in a single visit
It ensures that even the most anxious patients can get the dental care they need
There are no needles involved
The amnesia effects allow patients to have little to no memory of the procedure
If you dread your bi-yearly appointments or avoid them altogether due to mild or severe anxiety, then talk to our team at Heck Family Dentistry about oral conscious sedation! That way, you can schedule an appointment and be well on your way to the stress-free dental experience you deserve.
Oral Conscious Sedation FAQs
If the sheer thought of visiting the dentist causes your heart to race, then it is time to explore oral conscious sedation at Heck Family Dentistry. If you have a few questions you’d like answered to put your mind at ease, feel free to contact our office so our friendly, knowledgeable staff can provide you with the right answers. However, if you are a new patient and would like to learn a bit more before giving us a call, we’ve listed a few frequently asked questions (and their answers!) below.
Will I Feel Any Pain with Dental Sedation?
Since many of our patients’ dental-related anxiety stems from fear of pain, it’s not surprising this is one of the most common questions we hear. If you’ve wondered something similar, then you’ll be happy to know that the combination of sedation and anesthetics makes each appointment as comfortable as possible. In fact, sedation is often used for patients who are somewhat impervious to traditional numbing agents. Plus, even if you feel a slight pressure in the area being operated on, the calming effects will help you stay comfortable.
Is Oral Conscious Sedation Safe?
For decades, oral conscious sedation has been used because it’s effective and highly safe. However, it’s not for everyone, which is why we will review your medical history beforehand. For example, patients who are pregnant, allergic to the medication, or have existing kidney or liver problems are not candidates. The best way to find out for sure is to schedule an appointment with our sedation dentist. From there, they can conduct an exam, discuss your treatment options with you, and help you determine the next best steps for an anxiety-free visit.
How Long Does Oral Conscious Sedation Last?
The calming effects of oral conscious sedation can last anywhere from two to eight hours, which is why you’ll need a trusted adult to drive you to and from your appointment. This time frame ensures you’ll begin to feel drowsy when you reach our office and are completely comfortable by the time Dr. BeShore or Dr. Heck is ready to begin. The whole time, you will be closely monitored by our team to ensure your safety. Typically, the effects will completely wear off within 24 hours.
Will My Dental Insurance Cover Oral Conscious Sedation?
That depends! For extensive treatments, your dental insurance carrier may consider sedation necessary. However, if you are interested in oral conscious sedation for a routine cleaning, then they may consider it a “luxury” expense. Therefore, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider directly. That way, you can better understand the fine print on your plan. And, of course, if you need any help, we are only one phone call away.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry
You may be familiar with nitrous oxide sedation. Often, this is just enough to remove anxiety and allow you to be comfortable. However, sometimes it may be combined with other sedation methods to help you sleep. This could be due to severe anxiety, convenience, or physical limitations.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry
You may be familiar with nitrous oxide sedation. Often, this is just enough to remove anxiety and allow you to be comfortable. However, sometimes it may be combined with other sedation methods to help you sleep. This could be due to severe anxiety, convenience, or physical limitations.
How Nitrous Oxide Sedation Works
Chances are you have heard nitrous oxide referred to as “laughing gas.” It has earned this nickname from the feelings of warmth and euphoria that it produces, sometimes resulting in “the giggles.” This clear, odorless gas is administered through a little mask that we place over your nose. Because the mask remains there throughout your procedure, your sedation dentist can adjust the dosage of the sedative as needed to make sure you’re comfortable.
Despite rumors you may have heard, nitrous oxide doesn’t actually “put you to sleep.” You’ll still be conscious, but you’ll be so deeply relaxed that you may briefly doze off. Our team members can easily nudge you awake if need be.
Once the gas takes effect, you may feel light-headed or a slight tingling sensation in your arms and legs. Overall, you’ll feel calm and comfortable enough to receive whatever treatment you need to keep your smile healthy. You shouldn’t feel discomfort or even be very aware of your surroundings. In fact, after the sedative wears off, you probably won’t remember much of the procedure at all.
Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation Right for Me?
If anxiety or a general fear of the dentist has prevented you from getting the dental care you need, then you might be a good candidate for nitrous oxide sedation. However, it can benefit more than just anxious patients. We may also recommend nitrous oxide for patients who have:
Sensitive teeth or gums
A touchy gag reflex
Difficulty sitting still for long periods of time
Trouble holding the jaw open
Several treatments they would like to complete in one sitting
Back or neck pain
Certain physical or cognitive disabilities that make receiving dental care difficult
It’s worth mentioning, however, that some patients do not make good candidates for nitrous oxide. Certain medications and medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or pregnancy, can increase the risk of complications from nitrous oxide. During your consultation, bring a list of your current medications and be prepared to discuss your medical history. That way, we can make sure your treatment is as safe as possible.
What to Expect After Undergoing Nitrous Oxide Sedation
After we have finished with your procedure, we’ll simply remove the mask from your nose and escort you to the reception area. The effects of the nitrous oxide should wear off within just a few minutes, or half an hour at the most. Unlike many other kinds of sedatives, nitrous oxide doesn’t cause any lasting side effects. In fact, most patients are able to drive themselves home after their appointment and resume their day as normal!
Nitrous Oxide Sedation FAQs
Nitrous oxide has been used to help dental patients relax for well over a century. That said, it’s perfectly normal to have questions about the treatment and how it’s used. After all, you’ll only truly be able to relax when you’re fully confident that you understand your situation! Below are some of the most common questions that we’ve heard from patients before administering nitrous oxide sedation; let us know if you have any other concerns that you’d like to voice before your visit.
Will Nitrous Oxide Make Me Fall Asleep?
Even though nitrous oxide is a type of sedation, it is not actually supposed to put you to sleep. That said, there are cases where patients become so relaxed and drowsy under the influence of nitrous oxide that they fall asleep on their own; however, if this happens during your appointment, we can wake you up easily so that you can continue to answer our questions and follow our directions. The actual effect of the sedative is to put you in a highly relaxed state so that you remain calm throughout your treatment and don’t experience any discomfort.
Is Nitrous Oxide Sedation Safe?
Nitrous oxide is considered safe for patients of all ages, and it’s used for a wide variety of dental treatments. Side effects are very rare and are generally mild when they do occur. Possible side effects include dizziness, nausea, fatigue, headaches, and shivering. They should generally wear off quickly, although some side effects will last up to 30 or 40 minutes. If you’ve never used nitrous oxide sedation before and are unsure whether it will make you nauseous, it’s advised that you not eat anything for a few hours before your treatment. Again, though, such side effects are generally unlikely to happen.
How is Nitrous Oxide Sedation Used in Dentistry?
Nitrous oxide sedation is typically used for patients with mild dental anxieties and fears. It’s also useful for patients with sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or other issues that might make the treatment difficult. Generally, it’s preferred over other forms of sedation because it wears off quickly after the procedure is complete. Because of this, you’ll be able to continue on with your day as normal instead of having to spend the next 24 hours resting at home; you’ll also be able to drive by yourself instead of relying on a friend.
What Does Nitrous Oxide Feel Like?
You’ll wear a nasal mask for the duration of the procedure. When you start breathing in the sedative, you might start to experience a light tingling sensation. You’ll eventually be put in a state of euphoria where you’ll be at ease with everything going on around you. It’s not uncommon to feel general numbness or lightheadedness throughout the treatment, but overall, you’ll be very comfortable. After the treatment is complete, you’ll be observed for a brief period of time before you’ve fully recovered, which should only take a few minutes.
IV Sedation Dentistry
Are you struggling with dental fear or anxiety, making it nearly impossible to get your necessary dental treatments completed? Even those with very high levels of anxiety or nervousness can benefit with the help of IV sedation! This option is perfect for those who have either not found results they like with other sedation methods or need to have a long treatment completed. If you’ve never heard of IV sedation until now, Heck Family Dentistry is happy to answer your questions ahead of your appointment.
IV Sedation FAQs
We understand why you may have questions about sedation dentistry in general, let alone powerful options like IV sedation. Our goal at Heck Family Dentistry is to always make your dental treatments as comfortable and easy to complete as possible, and sometimes IV sedation plays a role in that process. If you have a question about this service, feel free to peruse our most commonly asked questions (and our detailed answers) below for your convenience!
What is IV Sedation?
IV (or intravenous) sedation refers to an anti-anxiety sedative that comes in the form of a fluid that’s transported directly into the bloodstream. While sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” it does not put you to sleep like general anesthesia. It’s an incredibly powerful sedative, making it the perfect solution for those who have already tried other methods but found no success in easing their anxiety, nervousness, or fear during dental appointments. It’s also the strongest form of sedation you can receive in a dental office.
Who is a Candidate for IV Sedation?
While those who are extremely fearful of dental appointments will be the most likely candidates for IV sedation, they aren’t the only groups that can benefit from this sedative. For example, those who know they will need to complete a long treatment (or multiple treatments) in one appointment can use IV sedation to get it done more easily. Furthermore, those who have a cognitive disability or other condition that makes it difficult to sit still in the dental chair will benefit from IV sedation.
How Does IV Sedation Work?
At the beginning of your dental appointment, a specialist will introduce themselves and describe the sedation process in detail before the dentist actually gets started on your treatment. Upon placing a very thin needle into your vein or hand, they will connect it to an intravenous tube. This tube will deliver the sedative directly to your bloodstream. If you struggle with needles, a numbing cream can also be applied to remove any and all sensation temporarily.
Upon receiving the sedative, you’ll quickly feel a deep sensation of relaxation and even euphoria, making it very difficult to remember what occurred during your procedure. Our sedation expert will closely monitor your blood pressure and vitals as your dentist performs treatment, ensuring your body does not experience a negative reaction to the sedative.
Is IV sedation safe?
When administered by a licensed professional, IV sedation is 100% safe to perform. Our office is happy to bring in a third party to perform and manage the sedation process before either Dr. Heck or Dr. Beshore start their treatment. In fact, it’s also considered to be a safer alternative to general anesthesia, which is performed exclusively in hospitals. Our sedation expert will go over each step of the process in detail ahead of time and will pay very close attention to your blood pressure and other vitals to ensure a safe and successful experience.
How do I prepare for IV sedation?
In order to prepare to receive IV sedation, you’ll need to make sure to have someone drive you from our office to your home. They should also be able to record all post-operative instructions on your behalf. Avoid drinking or eating anything 6 hours before receiving sedation. Do not drive or operate machinery for the next 24 hours following sedation. We also recommend that you wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to make placement of monitoring equipment easy.
Does IV sedation have side effects?
While the side effects of IV sedation are relatively minor, they are common. For example, some patients may experience nausea (which can be managed with anti-nausea medication ahead of time) drowsiness, and short-term memory loss about the procedure. Keep in mind that every patient reacts to IV sedation differently, so feel free to let us know about any prior experiences you’ve had with sedation. It’s also another reason why you need to have a loved one drive you from the office.
Can I talk while receiving sedation?
This all depends on how much sedative our partnered sedation expert provides based on your needs. For example, minimal IV sedation can make it possible to speak with the dentist, but more moderate or deep sedation may make it very difficult to speak (and even stay awake.) At the end of the day, our team wants to make you feel as comfortable as possible, and IV sedation’s on-the-fly adjustments ensure you can be free of anxiety or nervousness while still being able to communicate with us if needed.
What does IV sedation actually feel like?
It can depend on the amount of the dosage provided, but IV sedation largely imposes a highly calming sensation. The sedative only requires a few minutes to take effect, generally results in full-body euphoria, and causes any discomfort that could be felt during treatment to melt away. It also makes patients feel drowsy and experience minor tingling sensations throughout the body. If the dosage is higher, you may even have minor amnesia, which is ideal for those who’d prefer to remove any memory of their treatment.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Do you suffer from dental anxiety? Sedation dentistry could be the solution that you’ve been looking for. However, you may still have some unanswered questions, so we’re here to help! Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we are asked about sedation dentistry in Lawrence. If you don’t see the information that you’re looking for below, don’t worry. Just give us a call and we’d be happy to explain more about the process and schedule you for an appointment when you’re ready.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
For most patients, sedation is a perfectly safe option. Before deciding whether to administer sedation, your dentist will go over your medical history and current medications to find out if there could be any negative interactions. When you are sedated, the dentist and team will closely monitor your vitals at all times to ensure that you’re safe.
Will I remember anything with dental sedation?
Even though you are technically awake with most forms of sedation, chances are that you won’t remember much of your procedure. IV sedation is more likely to make you forget your procedure than oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide. The memory loss effect that sedation has makes getting dental care much easier for patients with extreme anxiety.
What are the risks of sedation dentistry?
While sedation dentistry is generally safe for most patients, it may still present some risks. For instance, patients with obstructive sleep apnea or who are taking certain medications may be more likely to develop complications. Common side effects of sedation include nausea, headache, and grogginess. Before you are sedated, your dentist will go over your medical history and any potential risks that could occur.
Does dental sedation make you tell secrets?
Contrary to popular belief, dental sedation is not a “truth serum.” It is very unlikely that you will reveal any secrets while you are sedated. Even if you do say something that you normally wouldn’t while under sedation, it will always be kept within the walls of the dental treatment room.
Is sedation dentistry worth it?
If you have severe dental anxiety or extensive dental work that you need to get done, sedation can make your treatment much easier. Putting off the care you need could result in the need for more expensive and invasive treatments later on. Paying for sedation now could save you quite a bit of money down the road.
