Sedation Dentistry in Denver

For many people, the hardest part of going to the dentist isn't the procedure, it's the anxiety leading up to it. Whether you've had a difficult experience in the past, have a strong gag reflex, or simply feel nervous in the dental chair, our team is here to help.

At RiNo Dental, we offer sedation options for qualifying patients so you can receive the care you need in a comfortable, relaxed environment.

A Different Approach to Dental Anxiety

Many members of our team have personally undergone extensive dental treatment themselves. We've been the anxious patient, the one with lots of questions, and the one hoping everything goes smoothly. That firsthand experience gives us a unique perspective and helps us create a more compassionate, supportive experience. We understand what it's like to trust someone with your smile, so we take extra time to listen, explain your options, anticipate concerns, and prioritize your comfort every step of the way. We believe that perspective allows us to care for our patients the way we'd want to be cared for ourselves.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is a safe, fast-acting form of minimal sedation that's inhaled through a small mask placed over your nose during treatment. It helps many patients feel calm and relaxed while remaining fully awake and able to communicate with the dental team.

Nitrous oxide:

• Helps reduce anxiety during treatment

• Takes effect within just a few minutes

• Wears off quickly after your appointment

• Requires no needles

• Allows most patients to safely drive themselves home afterward

It's an excellent option for patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety or anyone who wants to feel more comfortable during their visit.

Halcion Oral Sedation

For patients with more significant dental anxiety, we also offer oral conscious sedation using Halcion (triazolam) when appropriate.

Halcion is a prescription medication taken before your appointment that helps you feel deeply relaxed throughout treatment. You'll remain conscious and able to respond to the doctor, but many patients remember very little about their appointment afterward.

Halcion may be a good option if you:

• Experience moderate to severe dental anxiety

• Need multiple procedures completed during one visit

• Have difficulty sitting through longer appointments

• Have avoided dental care because of fear

Because the medication causes drowsiness, you'll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.

Need Deeper Sedation?

For patients who require IV sedation or general anesthesia, we can help coordinate your care with a trusted dental anesthesiologist. Whether your treatment is extensive, you have significant dental anxiety, or your medical history requires a higher level of sedation, we'll work with the appropriate specialists to help ensure your treatment is performed as safely and comfortably as possible.

Which Sedation Option Is Right for You?

The right sedation option depends on your medical history, anxiety level, and the type of treatment you're receiving.

Nitrous oxide is often ideal for patients looking for mild relaxation with a quick recovery, while Halcion provides a deeper level of relaxation for those with more significant dental anxiety.

Before recommending any form of sedation, we'll carefully review your health history, current medications, and treatment plan to determine which option is safest and most appropriate for you.

Comfortable Dentistry Starts Here

No one should avoid dental care because they're afraid or embarrassed. Whether you're coming in for a routine cleaning or a more involved procedure, our goal is to make your experience as comfortable and stress free as possible.

If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you deserve, let us know. We'll take the time to understand your concerns, discuss your sedation options, and if needed, coordinate care with a dental anesthesiologist so you can receive treatment with confidence.