Oral Sedation Houston TX

Do you experience high levels of anxiety when visiting the dentist? You may be a candidate for Sedation Dentistry. Dr. McRay and Dr. Robbins are certified by the Texas State Dental Board to administer (oral conscious) sedation, commonly referred to as “Sleep Dentistry.”

Sedation Dentistry

Advantages to patients include:

  • Treatment is completed when you are in a more relaxed mood.
  • You will have less difficulty sitting through a lengthy procedure.
  • Multiple treatments and full mouth restorations can occur during the same visit.
  • Less discomfort after treatment.

Our Sedative of Choice: Halcion (Triazolam)

The most commonly prescribed dental related drugs that treat anxiety belong to the “benzodiazepine” family. Drugs such as Valium, Halcion, Xanax, or Ativan. These drugs decrease anxiety by binding and toning down activity within “fear” receptors in the brain.  For your safety and comfort, we routinely use Halcion.

What is Halcion (Triazolam)?

Halcion is a type of benzodiazepine. Also known as Triazolam, it’s a sleeping pill that often causes amnesia and reduces anxiety. Unlike general anesthesia, Halcion is considered a type of conscious sedation. You’ll be awake during the procedure, but you will have limited memory and awareness.

It’s been established that using sedation during dentistry can help manage patient anxiety, and that it’s both safe and effective. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, Halcion is safely effective for short to moderate-length procedures (2-4 hours), and is ideal for patients with moderate levels of anxiety.

Halcion can also be “stacked”, meaning that you may be given additional doses at the dentist’s discretion. This is typically due to differences in metabolizing the Halcion.

Why Do We Use Halcion (Triazolam) in Sedation Dentistry?

Regular dental care is critical to overall health, but we realize that due to past experiences, some patients aren’t so eager to come in. Whether for their annual check up or for more pressing concerns, it can seem overwhelming.

It’s important to fix dental concerns before they become more significant, which means regular cleanings and preventative care. By using medication like Halcion, we’re able to provide safe and high-quality dental care while minimizing your anxiety and limiting your memory of the visit.

What Should I Know About Halcion (Triazolam) Before My Appointment?

While Halcion is a safe and effective option for sedation dentistry, there are some things you need to know in order to make the best decision for you.

  • You will not be able to drive, so you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment and stay with you during your recovery.
  • We will dispense Halcion about an hour before your treatment time in our office so there’s no need to be concerned about taking it on your own.
  • We routinely monitor your vitals from start to recovery every visit – every time to ensure your maximum comfort and safety with your visit(s) with us.
  • Depending on your procedure length and other factors, your dentist may give you an extra dose. (See above.)

Regular dental care is important, and we also realize you may not be eager to come see us. This is why we’ve chosen to offer sedation dentistry, specifically with Halcion. Using Halcion is an effective way to manage dental anxiety. And when used under doctor supervision, this is a safe and valuable addition to your dental care.

Please discuss your anxiety concerns with Dr. McRay and Dr. Robbins with our team and we will help you determine the most appropriate sedation techniques to ensure your treatment is safe and comfortable at all times.