Dental Anxiety & Sedation Dentistry in Salida, CO

Nitrous oxide is a mild, fast-acting sedative that helps ease anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures.

• Effects begin within minutes and wear off quickly after the procedure.
• You remain awake and responsive but feel deeply relaxed.
• Safe for both adults and children needing a little extra comfort.

This is an excellent option for patients with mild dental anxiety or those undergoing shorter procedures.

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative before your appointment to help you feel calm and at ease throughout your visit.

• You remain awake but deeply relaxed and may have little to no memory of the procedure.
• A responsible adult must drive you home after your appointment.
• Ideal for patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety or those undergoing longer procedures.

At Relaxation Dental, we use four different oral sedatives based on the length and complexity of your procedure:

Valium® (Diazepam)

• Best for longer, complex procedures due to its long-lasting effects.
• Helps reduce anxiety and induces amnesia, so you remember little to nothing about the procedure.

Halcion® (Triazolam)

• A short-acting sedative often used for shorter treatments.
• Induces drowsiness and relaxation with mild amnesic effects.
• Ideal for procedures under two hours.

Ativan® (Lorazepam)

• Primarily used for reducing anxiety while providing mild sedation.
• Has moderate amnesic properties and a medium half-life.
• Works well for treatments lasting less than two hours.

Versed® (Midazolam)

• A short-duration sedative, typically used for procedures under 30 minutes.
• Provides mild relaxation similar to nitrous oxide.
• Not as commonly used due to its short half-life.

For patients with severe dental anxiety or those undergoing extensive dental work, IV sedation provides a deeper state of relaxation.

• Administered through an IV for fast-acting effects.
• Allows for precise adjustments to maintain comfort throughout treatment.
• You remain in a sleep-like state but can still respond to verbal cues.
• A responsible adult must drive you home after your procedure.

IV sedation is often recommended for:

• Patients with severe dental phobia.
• Long or multiple procedures in one visit.
• Those who have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia.