Dental anxiety is more common than you think — and you have more options than you might realize.
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For many people, dental visits trigger genuine anxiety — and that anxiety becomes a barrier that keeps them from getting the care they need. Left untreated, dental problems grow quietly and become more complex and costly over time. Sedation dentistry breaks that cycle.
At Planet Dental, we offer three levels of dental sedation — from gentle nitrous oxide for mild nerves to IV sedation for patients who need a deeper level of calm. Our team is experienced in sedation dentistry and will help you identify which option fits your level of anxiety, the procedure involved, and your personal preferences.
Sedation dentistry is safe, widely used, and has helped countless patients finally receive the care they’ve been putting off. You don’t need to white-knuckle your way through a dental appointment — not here.
Sedation may be appropriate if you:
Sedation is also available for children in appropriate circumstances. We will discuss all options and determine the right fit at your consultation
Nitrous oxide is the gentlest and most widely used form of dental sedation. It is inhaled through a soft nose mask worn throughout the procedure and takes effect within minutes — producing a feeling of warmth, calm, and mild euphoria that significantly reduces anxiety without putting you to sleep.
You remain fully awake, aware, and able to communicate throughout your appointment. When the mask is removed, the effects wear off within minutes — making this the only sedation option that allows you to drive yourself home afterward.
Nitrous oxide is the gentlest and most widely used form of dental sedation. It is inhaled through a soft nose mask worn throughout the procedure and takes effect within minutes — producing a feeling of warmth, calm, and mild euphoria that significantly reduces anxiety without putting you to sleep.
You remain fully awake, aware, and able to communicate throughout your appointment. When the mask is removed, the effects wear off within minutes — making this the only sedation option that allows you to drive yourself home afterward.
Nitrous oxide is the gentlest and most widely used form of dental sedation. It is inhaled through a soft nose mask worn throughout the procedure and takes effect within minutes — producing a feeling of warmth, calm, and mild euphoria that significantly reduces anxiety without putting you to sleep.
You remain fully awake, aware, and able to communicate throughout your appointment. When the mask is removed, the effects wear off within minutes — making this the only sedation option that allows you to drive yourself home afterward.
Oral sedation is a convenient option for patients who feel nervous or anxious about visiting the dentist. It involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment to help you feel calm, relaxed, and more comfortable during treatment.
You remain conscious and able to communicate with your dental team, but you may feel drowsy and less aware of what is happening around you. Some patients may even lightly fall asleep during treatment and remember very little of their appointment afterward.
Oral sedation may be a good choice for patients who:
Because oral sedation can cause drowsiness, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home after your appointment. Your dentist will review your health history and provide specific instructions before treatment.
IV sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation for patients who experience significant dental anxiety or need longer or more complex dental treatment. Medication is delivered through a small IV placed in your hand or arm, allowing the level of sedation to be carefully managed throughout your appointment.
You remain conscious and continue breathing on your own, but you will feel deeply relaxed and may have little or no memory of the procedure afterward. IV sedation can help patients feel more comfortable and at ease, making it easier to receive the dental care they need without overwhelming fear or anxiety.
IV sedation may be recommended for patients who:
Before recommending IV sedation, our dental team will review your medical history, medications, and treatment needs to determine whether it is appropriate for you. Since you may remain drowsy after treatment, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home and follow any aftercare instructions provided by your dental team.
Yes — when administered by a trained and experienced team, dental sedation is safe and well-tolerated. At Planet Dental, sedation is carefully customized based on your age, weight, medical history, current medications, and anxiety level. You will be monitored continuously throughout your appointment.
We will conduct a thorough pre-sedation health review before recommending any sedation option, and we will discuss any questions or concerns you have openly before proceeding. Your safety and comfort are the first considerations at every step
Planet Dental uses the Zoom! whitening system — a clinically proven, LED-activated whitening treatment that can brighten your smile by up to 8 shades in a single session.
The Zoom! system is specifically formulated to minimize sensitivity during and after treatment — a common concern with whitening that the Zoom! formula addresses directly.
No — dental sedation, even at the IV level, is not general anaesthesia. You remain conscious, breathing on your own, and able to respond to prompts throughout your appointment. The difference is that you feel profoundly relaxed — and with IV or oral sedation, you may have little or no memory of the procedure afterward.
Yes. Nitrous oxide in particular is widely used and well-established as a safe and effective option for children who experience anxiety during dental treatment or who have difficulty cooperating during longer procedures. Oral and IV sedation may also be appropriate in certain cases. We will assess your child’s situation and recommend the most suitable option.
That’s exactly what a consultation is for. Your dentist will review your medical history, discuss your level of anxiety, explain the procedure you’re having, and recommend the sedation level that best fits your situation. There’s no obligation — just an open, honest conversation about your options.
Preparation depends on the type of sedation. For IV and oral sedation, you will typically be asked to fast for several hours beforehand and to arrange transportation to and from your appointment. Your dentist will provide specific instructions at your consultation based on the sedation option selected.
Yes. If dental anxiety makes even routine appointments difficult, sedation — particularly nitrous oxide — is available to help you feel comfortable. We want every patient to be able to access the care they need, without fear being a barrier.
Whether you’re mildly nervous or have been avoiding the dentist for years — we’re here to help. Book a consultation and let’s talk about the right sedation option for you. No judgment, no pressure.
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