Dental Care Without The Dread
Laughing gas, oral sedation, and conscious IV sedation can make dental care feel calmer, more manageable, and easier to complete.
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Dental fear can come from a past experience, a sensitive gag reflex, difficulty getting numb, embarrassment, sounds or smells, or simply not feeling in control. Whatever the reason, you are not difficult and you are not alone. Avoiding care often allows a small concern to become more urgent, so finding the right support matters.
Mountain View Smiles offers several levels of sedation dentistry because no single option fits every person or procedure. Dr. Brent Woodmansee holds a master certification from the American Society of Dental Anesthesiology–College of Sedation in Dentistry. He also has additional training in IV sedation, caring for medically compromised patients, and Advanced Cardiac Life Support instruction.
Sedation does not replace communication. We still explain your options, answer your questions, numb the treatment area when needed, and monitor you throughout the visit.
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Nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas, is breathed through a small nose mask. It helps take the edge off anxiety while you remain awake and able to communicate. The effects wear off quickly after the gas is stopped, though you should follow the specific instructions our team provides.
Oral sedation uses prescribed medication taken before the appointment. It may be appropriate when anxiety is stronger or the visit is expected to be longer. You will feel deeply relaxed and need to follow strict instructions about medication, food, drink, transportation, and having a responsible adult available.
IV sedation delivers medication in a controlled way for a deeper level of relaxation. You may feel very sleepy and remember little of the visit, but conscious sedation is designed so you can still respond to directions. Our team monitors you during treatment and provides detailed preparation and recovery instructions.
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Sedation may help if you:
Your medical history, medications, planned procedure, and level of anxiety all affect which option is safe and appropriate. A consultation is required before oral or IV sedation is scheduled.
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We ask about your health, previous sedation experiences, current medications, allergies, anxiety, and treatment needs. Be complete and honest; this information is essential for safe planning.
Instructions vary by sedation type. You may need to adjust food or drink, arrange an escort, and avoid driving or important decisions after the visit. Never take sedating medication unless it was prescribed and timed by your dental team.
We confirm your health information, explain what will happen, and begin the planned sedation. Appropriate monitoring continues throughout treatment. The treatment area is also numbed when the procedure requires it.
Laughing gas usually clears quickly. Oral and IV sedation require a responsible adult to take you home and monitor you according to the written instructions. Rest and do not drive until you have been cleared under your care instructions.
Helpful Answers
Laughing gas and oral sedation do not place you under general anesthesia. Conscious IV sedation creates a deeper relaxed state, but you are still able to respond. Many patients remember little of the visit.
Sedation has risks and must be planned around your health. A detailed history, proper dosing, monitoring, and following instructions all matter. Your doctor will explain the benefits and risks of the recommended option.
Usually, yes. Sedation reduces anxiety and awareness, while local anesthetic numbs the treatment area.
Transportation rules depend on the sedation used. Oral and IV sedation require an escort and no driving afterward. Follow the instructions provided for your specific visit.
No. The Loyalty Plan excludes nitrous oxide and IV sedation from member discounts.
Mountain View Smiles · Scottsdale
Talk with Mountain View Smiles about sedation dentistry in Scottsdale and find the right level of support for your next visit.
