Sedation Dentistry in Houston, TX
Feel Comfortable and Relaxed With Gentle Sedation Options
At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, we understand that dental anxiety is very real — and very common. Our compassionate team, led by Dr. Mack Coker and Dr. Daniel Ho, is proud to offer sedation dentistry tailored to your needs so you can receive the care you need in total comfort.
Whether you’re undergoing a complex oral surgery or a routine periodontal procedure, our sedation options can help you stay relaxed and stress-free throughout your appointment.
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry?
Many patients experience:
- Dental anxiety or fear
- Difficulty staying still during treatment
- Low pain tolerance
- A strong gag reflex
- Sensitivity to dental sounds, smells, or sensations
Sedation dentistry makes it easier to complete necessary treatments, especially if you’re planning multiple procedures in one visit — like tooth extractions or gum disease therapy.
Types of Sedation Offered
At our Houston office, we offer several forms of dental sedation, depending on your treatment plan and comfort level:
Oral Conscious Sedation
A prescribed medication taken before your visit. You’ll remain conscious but deeply relaxed. Many patients report not remembering much of the procedure afterward — perfect for reducing dental anxiety.
Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)
Delivered through a small mask, nitrous oxide helps you feel calm and at ease during your appointment. Its effects wear off quickly, so you can drive yourself home after treatment.
IV Sedation
Administered intravenously, IV sedation is ideal for more complex cases, such as bone grafting or dental implant placement. You’ll remain conscious but won’t feel any discomfort and will have little or no memory of the procedure.
Our doctors will evaluate your medical history and discuss the best option for your needs.
When Is Sedation Dentistry Recommended?
Sedation may be recommended during:
We’re happy to tailor sedation levels to the complexity of your procedure and your personal preferences.
Safety & Expertise You Can Trust
Your safety is our top priority. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools like our 3D Cone Beam CT Scanner for precise planning and safe sedation protocols.
Our affiliation with specialists and institutions such as MD Anderson Cancer Center also ensures that patients with more complex medical needs receive coordinated, thoughtful care — especially for treatments like oral cancer screenings and biopsies.
Serving Houston & Surrounding Communities
We’re proud to offer sedation dentistry to patients in:
- Champion Forest
- Greenwood Forest
- Kleinwood
- Memorial Northwest
- Spring and greater Houston, TX
Whether you’re coming in for a deep cleaning, a periodontal procedure, or complete implant restoration, we’re here to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. Sedation dentistry is very safe when administered by trained professionals. At North Houston Periodontics, our doctors evaluate your health history and tailor the sedation type and dosage accordingly. We continuously monitor your vitals throughout your procedure.
Will I be asleep during my dental procedure?
That depends on the type of sedation. With oral sedation and IV sedation, you may be in a deeply relaxed state where you don’t remember much — but you won’t be fully unconscious. Nitrous oxide keeps you calm but fully awake and alert.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
If you receive nitrous oxide, you’ll likely be able to drive home shortly after your appointment. For oral or IV sedation, you will need a responsible adult to drive you to and from your visit, as the effects take time to wear off.
Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
In some cases, sedation dentistry may be partially covered — especially if it’s deemed medically necessary for procedures like oral surgery or dental implants. Our front office team can help check your benefits and provide a detailed estimate.
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Most healthy adults are good candidates. It’s especially helpful for patients with:
- Dental phobia or anxiety
- Special healthcare needs
- A low pain threshold
- Complex dental cases
During your consultation, we’ll determine which sedation option is best for your comfort and safety.