Is Sedation Dentistry Right for You? What Tanglewood Patients Should Know
Dental anxiety is more common than most people admit — and it often leads to delayed care or skipped appointments. At The Houston Dentists of Tanglewood, we offer several sedation options to help patients stay comfortable during treatment, no matter how simple or complex the procedure.
If you’ve been searching for sedation dentistry in Tanglewood or a dentist who understands dental anxiety, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s often recommended for:
- People with moderate to severe dental anxiety
- Patients needing longer or multiple procedures
- Those with a strong gag reflex or difficulty getting numb
- Individuals who avoid the dentist due to fear or past trauma
We provide several safe sedation options, depending on your needs and medical history.
Sedation Options Available in Tanglewood
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
- Mildest form of sedation
- Inhaled through a small mask during your visit
- Helps you feel relaxed but awake
- Wears off quickly — you can drive yourself home
Learn more about nitrous oxide sedation.
Oral Sedation
- A prescription pill taken before your appointment
- Helps reduce anxiety and makes time pass quickly
- You’ll remain conscious but may not remember much
- You’ll need someone to drive you to and from your visit
Visit our oral sedation page for more info.
IV Sedation
- Administered intravenously for deeper sedation
- Ideal for more complex procedures or high anxiety
- Closest option to “sleep dentistry”
- You’ll be closely monitored throughout the appointment
Explore IV sedation for surgical or extended treatments.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes. All sedation options we offer are used routinely and are considered safe for healthy patients when administered properly. Before recommending any sedation, we’ll review your medical history and current medications to determine the safest approach.
Our dentists — including Dr. Tom Hedge — have years of experience in providing sedation dentistry and use advanced monitoring equipment during all procedures.
Can You Request Sedation for Any Appointment?
Most patients who are nervous about dental work can choose sedation for treatments like:
- Fillings or crowns
- Root canals
- Extractions
- Deep cleanings
- Cosmetic or restorative procedures
If you’ve been avoiding dental care because of anxiety or bad past experiences, sedation may help you get back on track.
Serving Tanglewood, 77057, and Nearby Houston Communities
We work with patients throughout Tanglewood, 77057, and nearby areas like Memorial, Uptown, and the Galleria. If you’ve been searching for a dentist for anxious patients in Houston, we’re here to help — with clear explanations and compassionate care.
Book a Sedation Consultation Today
Let’s talk through your options in a no-pressure consult. We’ll walk you through the process and help you decide if sedation is right for your treatment plan.
📍 800 Bering Dr, Suite 340, Houston, TX 77057
📞 Call or Text: (713) 782-4174
📩 Schedule your consultation
FAQs About Sedation Dentistry
Will I be asleep the whole time?
Only IV sedation offers a sleep-like experience. With oral or nitrous sedation, you’ll remain conscious but calm and relaxed.
Is sedation covered by insurance?
In most cases, no. But we offer CareCredit and Cherry for financing if needed.
Can I choose sedation for routine cleanings?
Yes — if anxiety makes it difficult for you to tolerate even simple procedures, we can discuss sedation options.
Is sedation dentistry safe for seniors?
Yes, though we’ll review all medications and health history to choose the safest option.
