Sedation dentistry can help you relax if you experience dental anxiety or have sensitive teeth. At Wellness Dental in Austin, Texas, experienced general and implant dentist Francisca Giple-Johnson, DDS, offers several types of sedation dentistry, including oral sedation and inhaled sedation with nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Call the office to request a sedation dentistry consultation today or book an appointment online.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses laughing gas or prescription medication to help you relax during oral health care. Millions of Americans put off routine dental check ups because they have sensitive teeth or gums. Sedation dentistry allows for a comfortable and relaxing treatment experience.

Who can benefit from sedation dentistry?

At Wellness Dental, Dr. Giple-Johnson prescribes sedation dentistry to people who:

• Have sensitive teeth
• Have a severe gag reflex
• Experience dental anxiety
• Can’t sit still for extended periods
• Need lots of dental work 

She also offers sedation dentistry to children who are fearful.

Can anyone undergo sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is safe and presents few risks, but it isn’t for everyone. Let Dr. Giple-Johnson know if you have an underlying medical issue, like heart or kidney disease. Chronic illnesses won’t necessarily keep you from undergoing sedation dentistry, but they may increase the risk of complications, so it’s important that Dr. Giple-Johnson is aware.

What are the types of sedation dentistry?

At Wellness Dental, Dr. Giple-Johnson offers two types of sedation dentistry:

Nitrous oxide (inhaled sedation)

Inhaled sedation uses nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax during dentistry. During treatment, you wear a mask over your nose and mouth. Dr. Giple-Johnson administers laughing gas through the mask, causing you to feel happy and relaxed.

Oral sedation

If you need lots of dental work, Dr. Giple-Johnson recommends oral sedation. Oral sedation uses prescription drugs, like Halcion®, to make you feel drowsy. You might fall asleep, but Dr. Giple-Johnson can nudge you awake if she needs you to follow instructions. 

Dr. Giple-Johnson can determine the type of sedation that will most benefit you.

What is recovery like after sedation dentistry?

After sedation dentistry, you need a friend or family member to drive you home. Laughing gas wears off quickly, but oral sedation doesn’t wear off for several hours. Take the rest of the day off work and avoid strenuous activities. Drink lots of water, take it easy, and follow Dr. Giple-Johnson’s instructions. 

Is sedation dentistry right for me?

Only Dr. Giple-Johnson can determine if you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry. After a review of your dental records, an oral exam, and a discussion of your goals, she can make treatment recommendations.

Call Wellness Dental to learn more about sedation dentistry today or click the online booking feature.