132 Alexander Rd, Stephenville TXMon to Wed, 9:00 am to 3:30 pm.(254) 965-2777
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If dental anxiety has kept you out of the chair, we have several ways to help, from nitrous oxide for mild relaxation to IV sedation for significant cases. Comfortable, safe, dentist-supervised.

Sedation Dentistry in Stephenville, TX

Nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation, and the BrainTap relaxation technology that bridges the gap. Trained, monitored, and comfortable.

Call (254) 965-2777

Three levels of comfort

Nitrous oxide
Mild, drive yourself home
Oral sedation
Moderate, designated driver
IV sedation
Significant, full case under sedation
BrainTap
Drug-free relaxation pre-procedure

Why patients choose Dental Excellence for sedation

Trained provider

Dr. LaDuque is trained in oral conscious sedation and works with a board-certified anesthesiologist for IV sedation cases. Continuous monitoring during every sedated visit.

Comfort spectrum

From a calming office environment and BrainTap relaxation tech for the mildly anxious to full IV sedation for significant cases. We match the level to the case.

Comprehensive treatment

For patients who have avoided the dentist for years, we plan comprehensive treatment that handles multiple issues in fewer visits, minimizing the number of times sedation is needed.

Insurance verification

Many insurance plans cover sedation when documented as medically necessary, significant anxiety, special needs, or extensive treatment. We verify and pre-authorize before scheduling.

The three sedation options

The right level depends on your anxiety, the procedure, and your medical history. We talk through all three at your consultation.

Nitrous Oxide

"Laughing gas" delivered through a small nasal mask. You stay awake, conversational, and fully alert within minutes after stopping. Best for routine procedures and mild anxiety.

Oral Conscious Sedation

A pill (typically Halcion or similar) taken 30-60 minutes before treatment. You're awake but deeply relaxed; partial or no memory of the procedure. Best for moderate anxiety or longer visits.

IV Sedation

Medication delivered through a vein for the deepest sedation level outside a hospital setting. You're asleep but breathing on your own; no memory of the procedure. Best for significant anxiety, extensive treatment, or special-needs cases.

What our patients say

4.8 stars · 161+ Google reviews

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Sedation dentistry questions

What sedation options are available?
Three levels: nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") for mild relaxation while staying awake; oral sedation (a pill 30-60 minutes before treatment) for moderate anxiety; IV sedation for significant anxiety or longer procedures. We discuss which fits your case at your consultation.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, when delivered by trained providers using current monitoring standards. We monitor heart rate, oxygen saturation, and breathing throughout sedated visits. Most adverse events come from inadequate monitoring; choosing a comprehensive practice is a strong safety choice.
How much does sedation add to my visit?
Nitrous oxide adds $50-$100 per visit. Oral sedation adds $200-$400. IV sedation adds $500-$1,500 depending on case length. Many insurance plans cover sedation when documented as medically necessary, we verify before treatment.
Will I remember the procedure?
With nitrous oxide, yes, fully. With oral sedation, partial recall, sometimes none. With IV sedation, usually no memory. Local anesthetic is still given for any procedure that would otherwise hurt; sedation handles the anxiety, anesthetic handles the pain.
Can I drive home after sedation?
Nitrous oxide wears off within 5-10 minutes, you drive yourself home. Oral and IV sedation require a designated driver. Plan accordingly when scheduling.
Who is sedation right for?
Patients with significant dental anxiety, those needing extensive treatment in one visit, gag-reflex sufferers, those who can't comfortably stay still for long procedures, and anyone with a history of traumatic dental experiences who wants to make a fresh start.

Get the dentistry you've been avoiding.

Schedule a consultation. We talk through your concerns, recommend the right sedation level, and plan treatment that fits your timeline and your comfort.

4.8★★★★★161+ Google reviews