Olympic Dental Answers the Most Common Sedation Dentistry Questions

Olympic Dental of Sugar Land offers high-quality sedation dentistry to our patients. If you’re struggling with fear or anxiety about necessary dental care, you should know that there’s another way. Dental sedation, which is also called sleep dentistry, allows you to get the dental care you need without pain, fear or unwanted stress. Here’s everything you need to know before your next appointment.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation is a medical practice that uses medication to calm and relax patients. Several types of sedatives can be used, including anti-anxiety drugs, sedatives, tranquilizers and depressants.

How does sleep dentistry work?

Before your procedure, our no pain dentist will administer the sedative. You will begin to feel deeply relaxed and calm, and you might feel drowsy. With most types of sedation, you will be awake and able to cooperate, but you will not feel anxious or nervous. With some types of sedation, you’ll simply sleep through the procedure.

What types of sedation can be used?

Nitrous oxide, oral anti-anxiety drugs and IV therapy are all used in sedation dentistry.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

When performed by a properly trained dentist in an appropriate setting, dental sedation is extremely safe. Olympic Dental offers only the safest sleep dentistry options and will constantly monitor your well-being.

Does insurance cover dental sedation?

Some dental insurance plans do cover sedation especially for those who suffer from dental anxiety or for children. However, not all cover it seeing it instead as a luxury or optional treatment. Your health insurance may also cover sedation depending on your situation.

How expensive is sedation dentistry in Sugar Land, TX?

We pride ourselves on being the most affordable no pain dentist in Sugar Land. The cost can vary based on several factors, including the type of sedation you need, the procedure you are undergoing, your insurance and your own personal needs. Our dentist will explain your options and their potential costs at your consultation.

What kind of procedures can be performed by a sleep dentist?

If you have dental anxiety, virtually any dental procedure can be anxiety-inducing. Our no-pain dentist offers extensive treatment options, including restorations, root canal therapy, extractions and dental veneers.

Am I a candidate for sedation dentistry in Sugar Land, TX?

Only our dentist can determine for sure if you are a candidate. However, some general guidelines include:

Dental anxiety or phobia
Sensitive gag reflex
Complex or invasive treatment needed
An inability to remain still during treatment due to mental or physical disability

What if I have other health problems?

Sleep dentistry is safe, but you need to let us know about any recent or ongoing health issues that you have as well as any prescription or over-the-counter medications that you take. You’ll be asked to complete a health history, including any changes in your health since your last appointment.

Can I drive myself to and from my sedation dentist appointment?

It depends on the type of sedation you use. With oral or IV sedation, you might feel drowsy for a while after treatment, and you will need someone who can drive you home.

Will I be asleep during the procedure? Will I remember anything?

That depends. If you have oral or inhaled sedation, you might remember your treatment. With IV sedation, you will wake up with little or no memory of the procedure.

Are there any side effects to dental sedation?

You will likely feel drowsy. The medication can linger in your system for up to 24 hours after the appointment, and your coordination and reasoning skills can be affected. Our expert in sedation dentistry in Sugar Land will explain all the pros and cons so that you can make the best decision for yourself.

Do all dentists offer sedation?

Many dentists offer nitrous oxide, which is the lightest form of sedation. Moderate sedation, IV sedation and general anesthesia require additional training and certification in some cases, and not all dentists are qualified to offer them.