Sedation Dentist Phoenix, AZ
Seeing a sedation dentist can help patients relax while receiving dental treatment. Sedation dentistry helps patients who have extreme dental-related fear or anxiety. If you avoid visiting the dentist because you are uneasy, sedation dentistry could be the solution for you.
A sedation dentist is available at Sundance Dental Care in Phoenix and the surrounding area. Our practitioners can help you determine if you are a good candidate for this type of dentistry. Call us today at (623) 687-2993 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
When to See a Sedation Dentist
Visiting the dentist causes extreme worry in many patients, but they can often combat this stress by being sedated during dental procedures. A sedation dentist is trained to provide patients with medication that can relieve anxiety by making them feel drowsy and relaxed. The American Dental Association has strict guidelines in place to determine which of the following types of sedation is most suitable for individual patients.
- Minimal sedation: Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, allows the patient to remain fully alert and aware of what is happening throughout the procedure. This medication commonly causes patients to feel relaxed and lightheaded. It is the most common form of sedation used in dentistry.
- Moderate sedation: Oral medication makes patients feel drowsy during their procedures. The effect of the medication may be strong enough to cause some patients to slur their speech and forget the procedure process. It must be taken an hour before the procedure begins.
- Deep sedation: Strong medication is administered through an IV. This allows the medicine to take effect more quickly and provides deeper sedation. Although most patients remain awake, they are extremely groggy and have little to no recollection of the procedure afterward. Some patients may fall into a light sleep but can be awakened easily once the dental procedure is complete.
“A sedation dentist is trained to provide patients with medication that can relieve anxiety by making them feel drowsy and relaxed.”
Who Should See a Sedation Dentist
Many patients have no problems visiting the dentist, but those who deal with anxiety and fear often have a difficult time staying still for a procedure. A sedation dentist can also help people who have a low pain threshold, sensitive teeth, a bad gag reflex, or require extensive dental work. In some cases, a person's dental fears are so strong that they avoid seeing the dentist altogether. This could negatively impact oral health if a person does not receive the necessary services to care for their teeth properly.
Patients with these issues should consider seeing a sedation dentist so they can relax during necessary dental procedures. The longer a patient waits before having oral problems addressed, the more extensive the damage will be. Therefore, it is a good idea for patients to seek the help of a certified sedation dentist immediately after realizing they struggle with an aversion.
“A sedation dentist can also help people who have a low pain threshold, sensitive teeth, a bad gag reflex, or require extensive dental work.”
Receiving Sedation At the Dentist’s Office
A sedation dentist may provide various types of sedation, including minimal sedation, IV moderate sedation, and deep sedation. Common forms of minimal sedation include nitrous oxide inhalation or pills. Depending on the dosage, pills can also be used to produce moderate sedation.
Sedation dentists can also provide IV moderate sedation in the dental office. This involves administering sedatives through a vein to take effect quickly. Deep sedation will put patients asleep, so they do not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. However, this form of sedation requires at least three dental professionals to be in the room to monitor the patient.
“A sedation dentist may provide various types of sedation, including minimal sedation, IV moderate sedation, and deep sedation.”
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How To Prepare for a Sedation Dentist
Patients should do extensive research and book a consultation before scheduling an appointment with a sedation dentist. While most dentists are certified to perform mild sedation, only certain practitioners who have completed the Commission on Dental Accreditation can administer deep sedation.
Patients should meet with potential dentists to determine which type of sedation is most suitable for their individual needs. The dentist will determine this based upon patients' ages and health in addition to the severity of their anxiety. After reviewing the possible risks associated with sedation dentistry, the patient should consider the dentist's experience and determine if sedation is right for them.
“Patients should do extensive research and book a consultation before scheduling an appointment with a sedation dentist.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. When should I see a sedation dentist?
Q. Who should see a sedation dentist?
Q. How can I prepare for a sedation procedure?
Q. What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?
People Also Ask
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is sedation dentistry safe?
A. Sedation dentistry is safe for many people. However, patients who have sleep apnea or are obese have a higher risk of complications from the medication. They should inform the dentist of their medical history so the practitioner can determine if sedation is the right solution.
Q. Who should see a sedation dentist?
A. Patients who experience severe anxiety over the thought of visiting the dentist should consider sedation dentistry. According to WebMD, this practice also benefits people with gag reflexes, sensitive teeth, or low pain tolerances. It may also be an option for those who have difficulty sitting still for extended periods or need a significant amount of work done.
Q. Why are sedation dentists beneficial?
A. Proper oral hygiene, including routine dental exams and cleanings, is essential for good oral health. However, many people have distress during dental procedures, causing them to avoid the dentist as often as possible. This leads to a decline in oral health and could lead to major problems in the future. A sedation dentist helps patients relax to undergo the cleanings and other procedures they need to maintain healthy teeth.
Q. Can children see a sedation dentist?
A. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, dental sedation is safe for children. Many kids are uncooperative or scared while in the dentist's chair, and sedation makes them feel at ease throughout the procedure. Most children only need mild sedation.
Q. Is there a recovery period after being sedated for dental procedures?
A. Most patients will feel drowsy for a few hours after seeing a sedation dentist. If you have received mild sedation, you may be able to drive yourself home but should rest the remainder of the day. Patients who receive moderate to deep sedatives will need someone else to drive them home and may sleep for a few hours after the appointment. However, all patients can resume their normal lifestyles the day after the procedure.
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Dental Terminology
Consult a Dentist About Sedation During Procedures
Sedation dentistry offers a way to get necessary dental care without fear or anxiety. Talk to a dentist about sedation options today. Call us at 623-687-2993 to schedule a visit.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
About our business, license, and website security
- Sundance Dental Care was established in 2011.
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- We serve patients from the following counties: Maricopa County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Phoenix, Tolleson, Avondale, Goodyear, Glendale, Litchfield Park, Laveen Village, Buckeye, Estrella and Peoria
- AZ (License #D07361). View License Information and Specifics
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