6108 Skillman St, Dallas, TX 75231
(469) 998-9822Sedation Dentistry – Dallas, TX
A Calm Appointment
Every Time
You don’t need a dental degree to know that most people aren’t exactly thrilled about going to the dentist. In fact, some are so scared that they’ll put off routine care for years, even decades. Dr. Henry understands that dental phobia is real, which is why he actively works to calm nervous patients, and this includes offering sedation. Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be stressful anymore, and with a little sedation, Dr. Henry can help you finally get the smile you deserve without the worry. To learn more about what sedation dentistry in our Dallas, TX dental office could do for you, contact us today.
Why Choose Skillman Family Dentistry of Dallas for Sedation Dentistry?
- Friendly & Welcoming Dental Team
- Nitrous Oxide Certified
- Judgment-Free Dental Office
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
You probably have heard of nitrous oxide being referred to as “laughing gas,” and that’s because the warm, euphoric feeling it creates can cause some patients to giggle (but only a little bit!). Mostly, it results in a wave of relaxation that alleviates anxiety and allows patients to stay completely calm in the treatment chair. If you’d like to learn more about how this mild sedative works, you can give our team a call or read on!
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
Since nitrous oxide is effective, but mild, it’s suitable for the large majority of patients. So, if you think this calming solution would help at your next appointment, don’t hesitate to talk to our Dallas dentist! They can learn more about your medical and dental history as well as any allergies you have and medications you’re taking. If you’re currently expecting or you have a condition that makes it difficult to breathe through your nose, then we may need to explore our other options. However, if you struggle with dental-related anxiety, have a fear of needles, or something similar, then this may be the solution you’ve been looking for!
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
All a patient has to do is breathe in the odorless gas mixed with oxygen – that’s it! When you arrive for your appointment, we will take you back to the treatment room, get you comfortably settled into the treatment chair, and place a small nasal mask over your nose. After a few minutes, the effects will set in, and all tension will be gone from your body and mind. Since you’ll stay awake, the lines of communication will be open throughout your visit, ensuring that you can respond to verbal commands and ask questions (if you have any).
Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide
To keep you calm and comfortable, the mask will remain on for your entire appointment. Once your treatment is complete, we will take it off and, almost instantly, the effects will begin to go away. That means you can drive yourself home from your appointment and go about your day as usual! Just make sure to follow any post-op instructions we give you, like rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater periodically.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is a perfectly safe option for most patients. Most people handle nitrous oxide with no issues, and of all the sedation options it is typically considered the safest for most people.
Before deciding to administer dental sedation, your dentist will review your medical history (including your current prescription and over-the-counter medications) to determine if there could be any negative interactions.
While you are under sedation, your dental team will closely monitor your vitals at all times to ensure that you are safe.
Will I remember anything with dental sedation?
Even though you are technically awake with most forms of dental sedation, you may not recall much of your treatment once it is complete. With nitrous oxide, you are more likely to remember your procedure, but you will likely feel relaxed and comfortable enough to stay the course without anxiety or fear.
How long does dental sedation last?
The effects of nitrous oxide should wear off within about five minutes of when you stop inhaling it. You should even be well enough to drive yourself home or to work after treatment with no lingering drowsiness.
Will I feel any pain with dental sedation?
With nitrous oxide, although you will be awake, the gas may partially suppress your body’s ability to register pain. Even if you do experience any discomfort, it’s much more likely to feel like pressure rather than outright pain.
If necessary, your dentist will also numb your mouth with a local anesthetic to help keep you comfortable during treatment.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for the Elderly?
In many cases, yes! Nitrous oxide gas is one of the gentlest forms of sedation and is routinely used with older adults, especially during dental emergencies when tension and anxiety can be high.
That said, safety always starts with a thorough review of medical history, medications, and any heart or breathing issues. If Dr. Henry believes you’ll benefit without risks or lingering side effects, your procedure can move forward. During your appointment, he’ll adjust the sedation level to your needs and carefully monitor your vitals to ensure you’re safe.
What does it feel like to be sedated at the dentist?
With nitrous oxide sedation, most patients describe feeling light, calm, and pleasantly detached from their surroundings. For children, we’ve heard it described as “becoming a teddy bear”—fuzzy, tingly, and a little giggly.
You’ll stay awake and aware throughout your appointment, but your anxiety is greatly reduced, and your surroundings simply “bother you” less. Plus, time often seems to pass more quickly, making your appointment a breeze.
Importantly, the effects wear off within minutes after the gas stops, so you can usually resume normal activities right away.
Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Coverage for sedation dentistry varies widely. Many dental insurance plans consider sedation an elective service and don’t cover it, especially for mild options like nitrous oxide.
However, some plans provide benefits when sedation is deemed medically necessary. For example, if you have a lengthy procedure, a medical condition that prevents you from getting treated, or have a child with special needs, it may qualify.
If you’re unsure whether your sedation will be covered, our team will happily review your plan, explain any out-of-pocket costs, and help you decide whether sedation is an investment worth making for you.