For many people, going to the dentist can trigger anxiety or even fear. At Creve Coeur Family & Sedation Dentistry, we understand how overwhelming that feeling can be—and we’re here to change your experience for the better. Through the use of safe, effective sedation options, we help patients relax, feel at ease, and finally get the dental care they need.

If you’ve ever avoided the dentist due to discomfort, fear, or a sensitive gag reflex, this post is for you. Let’s walk through the most common questions about sedation dentistry and how it can help make your next visit more comfortable.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s sometimes called “sleep dentistry,” but most forms keep you awake while simply easing anxiety and reducing pain sensitivity.

At Creve Coeur Family & Sedation Dentistry, we offer several sedation options to suit your needs:

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): A mild sedative breathed through a mask that works quickly and wears off just as fast.
• Oral Conscious Sedation: A prescribed pill taken before your appointment to deeply relax you while remaining responsive.
• IV Sedation: Delivered intravenously for a deeper level of sedation—ideal for lengthy or complex procedures.

Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation isn’t just for complex treatments. It’s a great option for patients who:

• Experience dental anxiety or phobia
• Have a strong gag reflex
• Require multiple or lengthy procedures
• Struggle with sensitivity to pain or touch
• Have difficulty sitting still for long periods
• Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past

If you’ve delayed dental care for any of these reasons, sedation may be the key to turning things around.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Yes—when administered by trained dental professionals, sedation dentistry is very safe. Before recommending sedation, we’ll review your health history, current medications, and discuss any concerns you may have. Throughout your procedure, our team monitors your vital signs to ensure your safety and comfort from start to finish.

Will I Be Asleep During Treatment?

Not necessarily. With nitrous oxide and oral sedation, most patients remain conscious and able to respond to instructions. You may feel sleepy, drowsy, or like you’re in a dream-like state, and it’s common not to remember much about the procedure afterward.

IV sedation can make you feel as though you’ve slept through the entire appointment, though technically you’re still responsive.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Recovery time depends on the type of sedation used:

• Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes, and you can often drive yourself home.
• Oral sedation and IV sedation require more time to wear off and will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours.

We’ll give you detailed aftercare instructions to help your recovery go smoothly.

What Procedures Can Sedation Be Used For?

Sedation can be used for a wide range of procedures—everything from simple cleanings (for anxious patients) to fillings, crowns, extractions, or full-mouth reconstructions. If anxiety or sensitivity is keeping you from getting the care you need, sedation can help make almost any treatment easier.

What to Expect Before Your Appointment

We’ll schedule a consultation to determine if sedation is right for you. During that visit, we’ll:

• Review your medical history
• Explain the available sedation types
• Answer all of your questions
• Help you prepare for a safe and relaxed dental experience

Comfortable, Judgment-Free Care in Creve Coeur, MO

At Creve Coeur Family & Sedation Dentistry, we believe no one should have to suffer through dental anxiety. Whether you’ve avoided dental care for years or simply want a more relaxed experience, our team is here to support you every step of the way. We’re proud to offer personalized, compassionate care in a comfortable environment.

Let’s Make Your Next Dental Visit Easier

If you’ve been wondering whether sedation dentistry is right for you, the best way to find out is to talk with our team.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward stress-free dental care.