Sedation Dentistry
in Spring, Texas

Sedation dentistry refers to the practice of using medicine to help reduce any pain or discomfort during dental treatment. By using sedation correctly, we can help ensure that the patient is kept as comfortable and relaxed as possible. We always carefully consider the needs of the patient and take great caution when using sedation. Our practice offers support for local anesthesia, oral sedation, IV sedation and laughing gas.

When is Sedation Dentistry Used?

Sedation dentistry is used during any treatment that tends to feature high levels of pain and discomfort. By using methods of sedation, we can work to alleviate discomfort during dental treatment. Sedation dentistry may also be used when a patient is unusually nervous, anxious or apprehensive about receiving dental treatment.

What is Local Anesthesia?

Local anesthesia refers to numbing medicine that prevents pain during dental treatment. This medicine is applied directly to the area of treatment immediately prior to the procedure. The treated area will become numb so that dental work can be completed more easily. The medicine should wear off shortly after treatment is completed. For longer procedures, we may provide the local anesthetic multiple times to ensure that the treated area stays numb.

What is Oral Sedation?

Oral sedation refers to sedative medicine that is provided through a pill that is swallowed shortly prior to treatment. Oral sedation requires a longer time to take effect than other methods of sedation. Once the medicine has taken action, the patient should feel sufficiently comfortable, calm and relaxed.

What is IV Sedation?

IV sedation refers to sedative medicine that is provided intravenously immediately prior to dental treatment. The medicine will take effect very quickly, and the patient will experience a powerful sensation of comfort and relaxation. Any pain or discomfort that they experience during treatment will be greatly reduced, and the patient will be much more comfortable with having dental work completed. The medicine used during IV sedation is short-acting, and it should wear off rather quickly. Because of its strength, IV sedation is only used during oral surgeries.

What is Laughing Gas?

Laughing gas refers to sedative medicine that is administered through inhaled vapors that taken in immediately prior to treatment. The patient will inhale the medicine through a mask that covers their nose. The medicine will take effect very quickly, and the patient should experience sensations of general comfort and giddiness. Laughing gas wears off very quickly, and the patient should return to normal shortly after the procedure is finished.