Sedation dentistry helps make complex or lengthy treatments more comfortable. It supports patient comfort, reduces fatigue during surgical procedures, and benefits those with a sensitive gag reflex or difficulty staying still.
How Sedation Dentistry Works
Sedation dentistry combines relaxation techniques and medication to help you stay calm and comfortable during your procedure. The word “anesthesia” means “without sensation,” and in dentistry, it can refer to local anesthetics that numb specific areas or sedatives that reduce awareness or anxiety.
Our goal is to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. We use nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, all administered under the supervision of certified anesthetists for your safety. With sedation, you can undergo treatment comfortably, protecting both your oral and overall health.
For Patients with Dental Anxiety or Phobia
If fear or anxiety about dental visits has delayed your care, we understand. Our compassionate team provides a calm, judgment-free environment that helps you feel safe and supported. Sedation dentistry is an effective way to ease dental phobia, helping patients who have had negative experiences in the past feel at ease throughout their procedure.
Sedation Dentistry Options
Whether you need mild relaxation for a cleaning or deeper sedation for a surgical procedure, our team customizes its approach to your comfort level and medical history. Local anesthetic is used to numb the areas that are being treated so these sedation options are mainly to make the experience more relaxing.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide provides light sedation and is ideal for patients with mild anxiety or shorter procedures. The gas is inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose, helping you feel calm and relaxed within minutes. Once the procedure is complete, the effects wear off quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home.
Benefits of nitrous oxide include:
- Fast onset and recovery time
- Adjustable sedation level during treatment
- Safe for most patients, including children and seniors
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment. This option helps you feel deeply relaxed, though you will remain awake and responsive. Because the effects last several hours, a companion is required to drive you home afterward.
Benefits of oral sedation include:
- Reduces anxiety and awareness during treatment
- No needles or IVs required
IV Sedation
IV sedation delivers medication directly into the bloodstream for a deeper level of relaxation. You may remain semi-conscious and able to respond to verbal cues, but most patients remember very little about the procedure. Our certified anesthetists closely monitor your vital signs throughout treatment to ensure safety.
Benefits of IV sedation include:
- Quick onset and easily adjustable level of sedation
- Ideal for longer or complex procedures
- Allows for multiple treatments in one visit
Sedation Options Comparison
| Sedation Type | Ideal For | Level of Sedation | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrous Oxide | Mild anxiety or short procedures | Light | Quick recovery, adjustable during treatment |
| Oral Sedation | Moderate anxiety, longer procedures | Moderate | No needles, deeply relaxed but conscious |
| IV Sedation | Severe anxiety, surgical or complex treatments | Moderate to deep | Fast-acting, adjustable, minimal memory of procedure |
What to Expect During Sedation
Before your procedure, we will review your medical history, medications, and comfort level to determine the best sedation option. All dental procedures are performed under local anesthetic to numb the treatment area, while sedation helps ease anxiety and promote relaxation.
During your visit, our certified anesthesia team continuously monitors your heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure.
After treatment, you’ll rest until you’re alert enough to go home. Most patients report feeling calm and drowsy, with little to no memory of the procedure.
Why Patients Choose Periodontal Associates
For nearly 50 years, patients across Centennial and Aurora, CO, have trusted our periodontal specialists for advanced gum and implant care. Our team provides comprehensive treatment in a calm, supportive environment, with modern technology and compassionate care at every step.
Patients choose us because we:
- Offer all levels of sedation
- Provide thorough medical evaluations before each procedure
- Prioritize patient comfort and safety
- Use advanced techniques and technology for precision and efficiency
Insurance and Financing
Periodontal Associates accepts most major dental insurance plans and will verify your benefits before your treatment to minimize surprises. Our team provides estimates in advance and helps you understand your coverage.
For any costs not covered by insurance, we offer financing options through CareCredit and Alpheon, making it easier to move forward with the treatment you need.
Learn MoreSchedule a Consultation
Experience stress-free dental care with sedation dentistry at Periodontal Associates. To book an appointment at our Centennial office, call (303) 795-5700. For our Aurora office, call (303) 755-4500.
FAQs
What does IV sedation feel like?
IV sedation creates a state of deep relaxation. You’ll feel calm and detached from your surroundings but still able to respond to instructions. Most patients remember little to nothing about the procedure.
Is IV sedation safe?
IV sedation is administered and monitored by certified anesthetists who track your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
How long does nitrous oxide last?
The effects of nitrous oxide wear off within minutes after the mask is removed, allowing you to resume normal activities immediately.
Does nitrous oxide put you to sleep?
No, nitrous oxide does not induce sleep. It simply helps you feel relaxed and less aware of your surroundings.
Do you feel pain with oral sedation?
Oral sedation is combined with local anesthesia, so you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout your treatment.
How long does oral sedation last?
Oral sedation typically lasts 4–6 hours, depending on the medication and dosage.
Where can I find a sedation dentist near me?
Periodontal Associates proudly serves patients across the Denver area from two convenient locations. Our Aurora office is located at 2900 South Peoria Street, Building D, Aurora, CO 80014, and our Centennial office is at 2101 E. Arapahoe Rd., Suite 101, Centennial, CO 80122. Both offices provide the same high level of specialized care in a welcoming environment.
