Advanced Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry in Whitesboro, Texas
For many people, the hardest part of a dental visit is walking through the door. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax, and it is a good fit if you feel anxious at the dentist, have a low pain threshold or need a long or complex procedure.
Some people call it sleep dentistry, but most patients stay awake. Only general anesthesia puts you fully to sleep. Sedation ranges from minimal, where you are awake but relaxed, to deep, where you are nearly unconscious but can still be woken.
Your Options
Types of Sedation We Offer
Nitrous Oxide
Often called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a mild sedative you breathe through a small mask over your nose. It is safe for adults and children and keeps you calm while you stay conscious and responsive. It wears off quickly once the mask comes off, so you can drive yourself home.
Oral Sedation
You take a prescribed medication before your appointment. Depending on the dose, sedation is minimal to moderate: you are awake but drowsy and much less anxious. The effects can last several hours, so plan for someone to drive you.
IV Sedation
IV sedation goes directly into a vein and gives a deeper level of sedation than nitrous oxide or oral medication. It can be adjusted throughout the procedure to keep you comfortable. The effects can last several hours afterward, so arrange a ride to and from your visit.
Less Fear and Anxiety
Sedation calms your nerves and takes the stress out of the visit.
Comfortable Treatment
Patients often say they felt no discomfort during procedures done with sedation.
Fewer Appointments
Bigger treatments can often be finished in one visit instead of several.
Easier for Sensitive Patients
It helps people with a strong gag reflex or those for whom local anesthesia does not work well.
Better Long-Term Health
When anxiety stops getting in the way, you get care on time and avoid bigger problems later.
Is Sedation Right for You?
Sedation may be a good choice if you have:
- Moderate to severe dental anxiety
- A low pain threshold or sensitive teeth
- Trouble sitting still in the dental chair
- A long or extensive procedure ahead
- A difficult dental experience in the past
We will help you choose the method that suits your needs and your medical history.
How We Keep Sedation Safe
Our team is thoroughly trained to give sedation safely. We review your medical history and current health to make sure you are a good candidate, and we monitor you the whole time. Follow your pre- and post-treatment instructions closely, and tell us about any concern, however small.
Don’t Let Anxiety Keep You Away
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fort or Dr. Schilling to find out how sedation can make your next visit calm and comfortable.