Whether you have dental anxiety, or you simply want to be more relaxed and comfortable during your next dental procedure, sedation dentistry from Dr. William Sung and Dr. Tam Nguyen is an option that can help.

At Grand Mission Dentistry, sedation is our specialty! One of the most common methods of sedation is oral sedation. If you’re considering this option, here’s a few common questions patients ask about the process:

How Does Oral Sedation Work?

You’ll be given a small dose of medication by one of our dentists. Typically, this will be some kind of benzodiazepine. These drugs reduce your level of consciousness and anxiety, and also have numbing, sedative properties, making them ideal for conscious sedation at the dentist’s office.

You’ll take your pills about an hour before your procedure. Then, during your procedure, you will feel sleepy and “dazed”. You may even end up falling asleep! These effects usually persist for a total of about 4-6 hours.

Can I Be Sedated For My Next Dental Procedure?

Patients choose to be sedated in the dentist’s chair for a wide number of reasons. You can be sedated for your next dental procedure if:

  • You have dental anxiety
  • You’re scared of needles
  • You are nervous about an upcoming dental procedure
  • You have a very strong gag reflex
  • You have difficulty sitting still for a long period of time
  • You are undergoing multiple dental procedures (such as multiple root canals and/or extractions)

And, even if you don’t fit any of those above criteria, we’re happy to offer you sedation if you think it will make your visit to Grand Mission Dentistry more comfortable. Just ask!

Can I Drive After Oral Sedation?

No. Oral sedatives usually have a substantial effect on your decision-making capabilities and motor skills. This means that it’s not safe for you to get behind the wheel after you’ve had oral sedation.

If you receive oral sedation, you must bring another adult with you to drive you home safely after your appointment. If you come to our office for sedation dentistry, and you do not have anyone to drive you home, we will either cancel your appointment, or proceed with the procedure without a sedative if you consent to do so.

If you cannot find anyone to drive you home, or if you would prefer to drive yourself, we also offer nitrous oxide as a sedative options (also known as laughing gas). While laughing gas does not have the same deep sedative effects as oral sedation, it can help relieve dental anxiety and its effects wear off within 5-10 minutes, allowing you to drive yourself home.

Grand Mission Dentistry – Gentle, Comprehensive Sedation Dentistry In Richmond!

If you are interested in sedation dentistry, Grand Mission Dentistry can help ensure that your visit is stress-free and painless.. Dr. Sung and Dr. Nguyen are expert sedation dentists, and we take an informative, comprehensive approach to dentistry. Don’t let dental anxiety or nerves prevent you from getting critical treatments like teeth cleanings, fillings, and periodontal care. Contact us now for an appointment at (281) 789-8836, or stop by our office at 8620 Grand Mission Blvd, Suite #E, Richmond, TX 77407 to get started.