Sedation Dentistry

Find out more about sedation dentistry and/or get a second opinion in a free dental consultation call our office near you:

Mesa - Modern Dentistry East Valley, near S. Stapley Dr and E. Baseline Rd., (480) 359-3827

If you have severe dental anxiety, there’s nothing to be ashamed of. A lot of people feel anxious about visiting the dentist, and severe anxiety is more common than you may think.

The causes of dental anxiety vary greatly, and sedation dentistry can help with most of them. Thanks to sedation dentistry, many people with severe dental anxiety are able to visit the dentist on a regular basis.

Laughing Gas
If you have anxiety about visiting the dentist, laughing gas can help calm and relax you. Also known as nitrous oxide, the gas is administered through nosepiece and be used for all types of dental procedures, even cleanings.

Oral Sedation
If you have trouble getting numb or are afraid of having a dental procedure performed (such as fillings, implants, crowns and bridges, root canals, and tooth extractions), oral sedation can help. Also known as conscious sedation, with this type of sedation, you’re only vaguely aware of your surroundings. You are conscious, but less cognizant of sights, sounds, and smells. Time will seem to pass quickly, and after your procedure, you’ll have little or no memory of it.

IV Sedation
If you have a severe gag reflex, have trouble sitting still, fear a loss of control, or can’t bear the thought of undergoing a dental treatment, IV sedation might be called for. Also known as general anesthesia, with IV sedation, you’ll be completely unconscious.

Driving Home After Sedation
With laughing gas, once the treatment is completed, 100% oxygen is administered, to bring you back to alertness. You can drive yourself home after receiving laughing gas. With oral sedation and IV sedation, your vital signs are monitored throughout the dental procedure. You’ll need someone else to drive you home after receiving oral sedation or IV sedation, because it can take a few hours for the full effects of the sedation to wear off.

Did you know not all dental offices in the Phoenix area offer all three types of sedation? Which one is right for you? That depends on your level of anxiety and the dental treatment being performed. We’re happy to talk to you about your concerns and recommend the sedation that would be best for you.

For questions about dental anxiety or your sedation options including emergency appointments, please call us and we'll be happy to help!

Please note: We accept most types of insurance plans and are in network (preferred providers) for a number of major insurance companies.  Contact our offices for further details.