Sedation Dentistry in Midvale, UT
At Focus Dental Group, we understand that dental fear and anxiety are real challenges that keep many people from getting the care they need. Sedation dentistry uses safe, proven medications to help you relax during treatment, so you can get through cleanings, fillings, and more complex procedures calmly and comfortably. Whether your anxiety is mild or severe, we will help you find the level of sedation that fits your needs.
Request an AppointmentHow Sedation Dentistry Helps
Sedation dentistry eases dental anxiety by allowing you to relax completely during your procedure. Most of our sedation options do not fully put you to sleep. Instead, they help you feel calm so you are not distracted by the sights, sounds, and smells of the dental office. Many patients remember little of their visit afterward and are surprised at how quickly the time passed.
Sedation can also make it possible to complete more treatment in fewer visits, which is helpful for busy patients and those who need extensive work such as full mouth reconstruction or dental implants.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation?
Sedation can make the difference between getting needed treatment and avoiding the dentist entirely. It may be a good option if you:
- Feel anxious or fearful about dental visits
- Have a low pain threshold
- Have difficulty sitting still in the dental chair
- Have sensitive teeth
- Have a strong gag reflex
- Need extensive or lengthy treatment
During your consultation, our dentists will review your medical history and medications to make sure sedation is safe for you.
Types of Sedation We Offer
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, often called “laughing gas,” is inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose. It helps you feel relaxed within minutes and wears off quickly after the mask is removed, so most patients can drive themselves home after their visit.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is taken in pill form about an hour before your appointment. It can provide mild to moderate sedation. You will feel drowsy and may doze off, but you can be easily awakened. Because the effects last for several hours, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is a deeper form of conscious sedation delivered through a vein. It makes you much less aware of your surroundings while still allowing you to respond to simple instructions and breathe on your own. A companion must drive you home and stay with you until the effects wear off.
Comfort Beyond Sedation
In addition to sedation, we use gentle techniques and modern technology to make treatment more comfortable. Our WaterLase iPlus laser can perform many procedures without the heat, vibration, and pressure of a traditional drill, often with fewer numbing shots. Our dentists also discuss your pain tolerance before every procedure and create a pain management plan with you.
Treatments Commonly Paired With Sedation
Sedation can be used for many of our services, including root canal treatment, crowns and bridges, All-on-4 dental implants, extractions, and even routine cleanings for patients with severe anxiety.
Ready for a more relaxed dental experience? Visit Focus Dental Group at 6770 S 900 E, Suite 301, Midvale, UT 84047, or call (801) 255-7101 to schedule your appointment.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. When provided by trained dental professionals who review your medical history and medications, sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to reduce anxiety.
Will I be asleep during treatment?
Most sedation options, including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, keep you relaxed and drowsy but still able to respond, rather than fully asleep.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
You can usually drive after nitrous oxide. With oral or IV sedation, you will need someone to drive you home.
What type of sedation is right for me?
The best option depends on your level of anxiety, the length of your treatment, and your health. Our dentists will help you choose.
Can sedation help with a strong gag reflex?
Yes. Sedation can relax your gag reflex and make dental treatment more comfortable.
Can I get several procedures done in one visit with sedation?
In many cases, yes. Sedation can make it easier to complete more treatment in fewer appointments.
Do you offer other comfort options besides sedation?
Yes. We offer gentle laser dentistry with the WaterLase iPlus and create a pain management plan with every patient.