Sedation Dentistry

If you are amongst the 40 million Americans who have apprehension about going to the dentist or have put off dental care s because of anxieties, help is on the way. Fortunately, there are several sedation dentistry treatment options available to ease your concerns.

There are several safe types of sedation including:

• Inhaled minimal sedation: You breathe nitrous oxide -- otherwise known as "laughing gas" -- combined with oxygen through a mask that's placed over your nose. The gas helps you relax. Your dentist can control the amount of sedation you receive, and the gas tends to wear off quickly. This is the only form of sedation where you may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.
• Oral sedation: Depending on the total dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill. Typically, the pill is Halcion, which is a member of the same drug family as Valium, and it's usually taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you drowsy, but you'll still be awake. A larger dose may be given to produce moderate sedation. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. Some people become groggy enough from moderate oral sedation to actually fall asleep during the procedure.
• Deep sedation and general anesthesia: You will get medications that will make you either almost unconscious or totally unconscious -- deeply asleep -- during the procedure. While you are under general anesthesia, you cannot easily be awakened until the effects of the anesthesia wear off or are reversed with medication.

During your visit, we can discuss which options are offered and create your personalized treatment plan for a worry-free dental care experience.

Our team at Cook Dental is here to help you overcome your dental anxiety and regain your confidence about visiting the dentist. Our personalized approach offers several safe ways to assist you in receiving treatment while remaining relaxed. For more information on Comfort Dentistry call Cook Dental at 281-342-8481 or make an appointment.