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Smile Quest Dental

Sedation · 5 min read

Afraid of the Dentist? How Sedation Dentistry Works

Reviewed by Dr. Charles Smurthwaite, DDS, MS ·

You are not alone

Roughly one in three adults has some level of dental anxiety. Avoiding care usually makes treatment bigger over time — sedation breaks that cycle.

Your options

Nitrous oxide is breathed through a small nose mask and wears off within minutes, so you can drive yourself home.

Oral conscious sedation is a prescribed pill taken before your visit. You’ll feel drowsy and calm and will need a driver.

Getting more done in fewer visits

Because you’re relaxed, we can often complete several treatments in one appointment — ideal for busy schedules and larger plans like implants.

Considering sedation dentistry?

Get a personal plan from Dr. Smurthwaite in Rocklin — minutes from Roseville, Lincoln, Granite Bay and Antelope.

Read the full Sedation Dentistry guide

Frequently asked questions

Can I eat before sedation?

For oral sedation we’ll give you specific instructions, usually a light meal several hours before. Nitrous oxide has fewer restrictions.

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