Dental sedation is a personalized solution that helps patients feel calm and comfortable during dental procedures. Whether you are visiting for a routine cleaning or a complex treatment, sedation allows you to receive the care you need without anxiety or stress.
By using safe, proven sedation techniques, we make it easier to overcome fear, control discomfort, and stay relaxed throughout your visit.
Sedation dentistry is often recommended for patients with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, sensitive teeth, or difficulty sitting still during treatment.
Summary: Dental sedation is a safe, effective way to ease dental anxiety, improve your experience, and ensure you feel confident receiving necessary care. From laughing gas to general anesthesia, we tailor sedation options to your needs and medical history.
We provide personalized sedation options for adults and children at our dental office in Boulder, CO.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of carefully selected medications to help you feel relaxed and at ease during your dental visits. Depending on your needs and the type of treatment, sedation can range from mild relaxation, where you remain fully awake but calm, to deeper levels of sedation or complete sleep under general anesthesia.
These medications work by calming areas of the brain that process fear and discomfort, making it easier to undergo procedures without anxiety or distress.
Sedation dentistry is an excellent option for those with:
- Dental anxiety or phobia
- A strong gag reflex
- Sensitivity to sounds, smells, or sensations during treatment
- Difficulty sitting still for extended periods
- Extensive dental treatment needs
At Broda Family Dental, we use the safest sedation techniques available to support your oral health without fear or discomfort.
Types of Dental Sedation We Offer
We offer multiple levels of sedation, each carefully matched to the procedure and your personal needs:
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
- Inhaled through a small nose mask
- Helps you feel calm while staying fully awake
- Effects wear off quickly, allowing you to resume normal activities after your appointment
- No anesthesiologist required
IV Conscious Sedation (Twilight Sedation)
- Administered directly into a vein for fast, adjustable results
- You remain conscious but deeply relaxed
- Must be monitored by a licensed dental anesthesiologist
General Anesthesia
- Induces full unconsciousness for complete comfort
- Used for complex procedures or severe dental phobia
- Performed only by a trained dental anesthesiologist
No matter which option you choose, we will take the time to explain what to expect and answer any questions so you feel informed and confident about your care.
What To Expect With Sedation Dentistry
We start by reviewing your medical history and discussing your goals for treatment. Once we determine the best form of sedation, we will guide you through every step.
- Before your visit: For IV sedation, you may need to avoid eating or drinking for a period of time. You will also need to arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after your appointment.
- Arrival and preparation: When you arrive, we will review your health information, take your vital signs, and make sure you are comfortable.
- Sedation administration: The way sedation is given depends on the option you choose. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a small nose mask throughout your procedure. IV conscious sedation is delivered through a small needle placed in a vein, usually in your arm or hand, allowing us to adjust the level of sedation as needed. General anesthesia is also administered through an IV and monitored continuously by a licensed dental anesthesiologist to keep you fully asleep during your treatment.
- Dental treatment: Once you are comfortable, we will begin your procedure and check on you frequently to ensure you remain at ease.
Aftercare and Recovery
Your comfort and safety continue even after your dental procedure ends. If you receive IV conscious sedation or general anesthesia, you will need a little time to rest and recover before returning to your normal activities.
Here’s what you can expect after your visit:
- Plan for a ride home: If you receive IV sedation or general anesthesia, you must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for several hours afterward. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so in most cases, you will be able to drive yourself home once you feel fully alert.
- Take it easy: Most patients feel drowsy or groggy for the rest of the day. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions until the next morning.
- Stick to soft foods: Wait until the numbness in your mouth has completely worn off before eating to avoid accidentally biting your cheeks, lips, or tongue. Once you are no longer numb, choose soft, easy-to-chew foods like yogurt, soup, scrambled eggs, or smoothies, especially if your mouth feels sore.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support recovery and stay comfortable as the sedation wears off.
Is Dental Sedation Right for You?
Dental sedation may be a great fit if you:
- Experience dental anxiety or fear of needles
- Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
- Need multiple dental procedures completed in one visit
- Struggle with a sensitive gag reflex
- Have difficulty staying numb with local anesthetic alone
If you are interested in sedation options, we will review your medical history and help you choose the safest, most effective method for your care.
Prioritizing Comfort and Oral Health
We believe that oral health should never be compromised due to fear or anxiety. Our sedation options are designed to support a positive experience so you can get the dental work you need without stress or hesitation.
At Broda Family Dental, you’ll never be judged. Whether it has been years since your last visit or you are simply nervous, we are here with modern tools, skilled care, and a gentle approach.
Key takeaway: With personalized sedation options, you can relax and feel confident about getting the dental care you need.
Insurance and Membership Options
We are in-network with Delta Dental Premier, Cigna DPPO Plus, Anthem, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. We also accept out-of-network benefits and offer a dental membership plan for patients without insurance.
We proudly serve Boulder and the surrounding communities of Superior, Louisville, Lafayette, Longmont and Erie.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Boulder, CO, call (303) 442-6141 or visit us at 777 29th St, Unit 300 Boulder, CO 80303.
FAQs
Is dental sedation safe?
Dental sedation is safe when it is planned carefully and administered by qualified professionals. At Broda Family Dental, we review your medical history, follow proven safety guidelines, and monitor you closely throughout your procedure. A certified dental anesthesiologist is always present for deeper sedation to ensure your comfort and safety.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
If you received nitrous oxide, you can usually drive yourself home. For IV sedation or general anesthesia, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home.
Is dental sedation covered by insurance?
Sedation may be partially covered when it’s deemed medically necessary. We will check your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs in advance.
Can children receive dental sedation?
Children can receive dental sedation when appropriate. We carefully review their health history and use age-appropriate sedation options to keep them safe and comfortable during treatment.
