Sedation Dentistry in Waxahachie, TX

If you have stress or anxiety about an upcoming procedure, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is common for patients of all ages, but for too many, it can cause them to avoid getting the necessary care their teeth deserve. Luckily, we offer safe and reliable dental sedation options that can make your treatment relaxing and stress-free. With your worries at ease, we can efficiently complete your procedure without jeopardizing your comfort.

Unlike the general anesthesia you might receive before surgery, you’ll be conscious for the duration of your treatment under sedation. Most dental sedation techniques are used in combination with a local anesthetic or painkiller to ensure you remain free of any pain or discomfort throughout your entire procedure. 

Our Waxahachie dentist, Dr. Clinton will closely monitor your comfort during the procedure, ensuring your well-being and making any adjustments to your treatment if necessary. Read on to discover how you can benefit from sedation dentistry. 

Dental Anxiety, Phobia, & Low Pain Tolerance

Many patients who have dental anxiety or a low pain tolerance benefit from dental sedation. Patients with a phobia about dental care often avoid going to the dentist due to a previous bad experience or fears about undergoing a particular procedure.

Unfortunately, putting off necessary procedures will cause your condition to worsen over time. This can put you at risk of needing more costly and invasive treatments. Don’t put off the dental care you need, trust our sedation techniques to make your treatment stress-free and painless.

Sedation Dentistry Options

We provide a spectrum of dental sedation options at Waxahachie Family Dentistry to help you through your treatments. Your dentist can consult with you to determine the best choice to alleviate your anxiety symptoms during your consultation to ensure a successful procedure.

IV Conscious Sedation

With this method, your sedative is administered intravenously. Patients report feeling a euphoric state of deep relaxation. Since the drug is administered through an IV, it will have an immediate effect and our dentists can adjust the dosage as needed.

You’ll be conscious throughout your treatment and will able to respond to questions, but you may not remember much about the procedure afterward.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral sedatives are administered in the form of a pill. You’ll take the pill prior to your appointment to ensure a state of relaxation. Patients report feeling drowsy and sometimes falling asleep during their procedure.

Nitrous Oxide

Commonly referred to as “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide is a colorless and odorless gas that’s inhaled through a mask. You’ll remain conscious but will have a sense of well-being, keeping you relaxed and comfortable during your procedure. The effects of nitrous oxide typically wear off quickly.

Don’t Forget Your Driver

It’s important to note that you’ll need to arrange for a driver to safely take you home following treatment with IV or oral sedation. If you’re utilizing oral sedation, you’ll also need someone to bring you to your appointment. After treatment with nitrous oxide, you may choose to drive yourself home after the effects have subsided.

Sit Back, Relax, & Enjoy Your Treatment

We understand that not everyone loves going to the dentist, so we want to make the experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible. If you’re interested in learning more about our sedation techniques, contact our Waxahachie office by calling (972) 885-3335 or filling out our contact form so we can answer any questions. We’re proud to provide service for the Waxahachie and Ennis, TX areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat before dental sedation?

In addition to following any pre-op recommendations by our dentists, it’s vital that you follow the fasting guidelines and avoid eating or drinking for six hours prior to sedation. You may drink water up to two hours prior to your appointment.

Fasting is an important precaution due to the reflex-suppressing effects of sedation. If you have food or beverages in your stomach and become nauseous, you’re more likely to vomit and aspirate. If you eat or drink prior to sedation, your procedure will need to be rescheduled.

Does insurance cover dental sedation?

If your treatment requires sedation, insurance may cover all or a portion of the expenses. We recommend checking with your provider prior to your appointment for more information on your coverage. If we can help by answering any questions about financing, please don’t hesitate to contact our office by calling (972) 885-3335.

What are some ways that I can deal with my dental anxiety?

In the days leading up to your appointment, and on the day of, there are some techniques and practices you can use to decrease any dental anxiety you experience. These include:

  • Taking slow, regular breaths — avoid holding your breath
  • Bring headphones so you can listen to music
  • Avoid caffeine 
  • Use hand signals if you experience any discomfort
  • Schedule your appointment at a convenient time
  • Place your trust in a dentist you’re comfortable with

If you have dental anxiety, tell one of our dentists and they’ll inform you about strategies and the benefits of dental sedation. 

Are there any aftercare guidelines following dental sedation?

The aftercare guidelines depend on the type of sedation you received. If you received nitrous oxide, you’ll be fine to carry on with your day as you normally would. For any other form of sedation, you’ll want to follow any recommendations by our dentists and these guidelines to be safe:

  • Take It Easy: Don’t participate in activities that put you at risk for injury, as you’ll be less coordinated and you might be off-balance
  • Continue to Move Around: This will help your body metabolize the medication
  • Drink Water: You may be dehydrated following your procedure and water will help flush out the medicine
  • Avoid foods that might upset your stomach, as sedation can cause nausea

If you have any concerns, our compassionate staff is available at (972) 885-3335 to discuss any worries and answer your questions.