Say Goodbye to Dental Anxiety
Sedation dentistry helps millions of people manage dental anxiety, making it easier to schedule regular checkups or necessary procedures. Fortunately, at our Houston dental offices, you can relax and feel in control, making your dental visits much more manageable.
Many patients benefit from sedation dentistry, especially those who:
- Experience dental fear or phobia
- Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
- Struggle to get numb with local anesthesia
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Need extensive or multiple procedures
- Find it hard to sit still for long appointments
Our goal is to make every dental visit comfortable, convenient, and anxiety-free.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients relax during dental treatments. Depending on your needs, sedation can range from minimal relaxation to full unconsciousness. You’ll still receive the same high-quality care, but without the stress, fear, or discomfort.
We offer multiple types of sedation, allowing us to personalize your care and help you feel completely at ease, no matter the procedure.
Your Sedation Options In Houston
No two patients are alike. That’s why we offer different types of sedation, so you can choose the level of relaxation that works best for you. From mild to deep sedation, each option is administered safely by trained professionals.
Minimal Sedation (Nitrous Oxide / Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a gentle and effective option for patients with mild anxiety. You’ll inhale the gas through a small nose mask, and within minutes, you’ll feel more relaxed and unconcerned about the treatment.
You’ll remain awake and able to communicate with our team, and because nitrous oxide wears off quickly, you can drive yourself home afterward. It’s an excellent option for:
- Mild dental anxiety
- Difficulty getting numb
- Strong gag reflex
- Quick recovery and same-day normal activities
Moderate Sedation (Oral Conscious Sedation)
Oral sedation is taken as a pill before your appointment and provides a stronger level of calm. You’ll remain conscious but feel deeply relaxed, and you may remember little to nothing about the procedure.
Because oral sedatives can take time to wear off, you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you after your visit. This type of sedation is ideal for:
Moderate to severe dental anxiety
- Longer or more complex treatments
- Patients who prefer to feel detached from the procedure
Deep Sedation (IV Sedation)
With IV sedation, the sedative is administered directly into your bloodstream, allowing for precise control and rapid onset. You’ll be in a deeply relaxed state—still technically conscious, but unlikely to respond or remember much of the procedure.
This type of sedation is well-suited for:
- Severe dental phobia
- Multiple treatments in one visit
- More complex dental procedures
- Patients who prefer little to no awareness during treatment
You will be continuously monitored during the procedure and need someone to accompany you afterward.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation and is typically reserved for oral surgeries or extremely complex cases. Under general anesthesia, you will be completely unconscious and unaware of the procedure.
This option is only used when absolutely necessary and is typically performed in a hospital or surgical facility. We’ll work with your physician to ensure you’re a good candidate and help coordinate care.
General anesthesia may be recommended for:
- Surgical procedures such as wisdom teeth removal or full-mouth reconstruction
- Patients with high anxiety who are not responsive to other sedation methods
- Medically complex cases requiring a controlled surgical environment
Is Sedation Dentistry Right For You?
During your consultation, we’ll talk about your medical history, past dental experiences, and level of anxiety to help determine which sedation method is right for you. Our team is highly trained in safety protocols and sedation techniques, and your comfort will always be our top priority.
If you are a candidate for deep sedation or general anesthesia, we may request clearance from your physician to ensure you are medically fit for the procedure.
Sedation dentistry can help you take control of your oral health and feel confident receiving the care you need.
How Can We Help You?
How Can We
Help You?
Safe. Comfortable. Fully Supported.
Our commitment is to your comfort and safety—at every step.
From the moment you arrive at one of our offices, you’ll be treated with kindness and respect. We understand how important it is to feel safe and supported—especially if you’re feeling anxious. That’s why we follow strict safety protocols, provide thorough monitoring, and take the time to listen to your concerns.
Our sedation services are designed to give you peace of mind while you get the dental care you need—without fear, pain, or pressure.
Enjoy Dentistry Without the Stress
Sedation dentistry is more than a tool—it’s a pathway to better dental health. Many of our patients who started with sedation now feel more confident visiting us without it. By building positive experiences and overcoming fear, sedation dentistry can help you shift your perspective on dental care for good.
We’re here to help you feel calm, safe, and empowered—one appointment at a time.
Find Sedation Dentistry in Houston Today
If you’ve been putting off dental care due to anxiety, let’s talk about how sedation dentistry can transform your experience. Call (281) 320-2000 or click the button below to schedule your sedation dentistry consultation with our caring team. We’re here to help.
Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry proudly serves Houston with two convenient locations, offering sedation options that are safe, effective, and designed just for you.
