If the thought of going to the dentist makes your heart race, you’re not alone. For many people, dental anxiety is very real. But the good news is that modern dentistry has a solution that makes appointments a lot more relaxing: sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry. Whether you’re someone who’s avoided appointments for years or you’re simply curious about how sedation works, you’re in the right place.

At Hillside Dental Care, we’ve seen firsthand how transformative this option can be. Patients who used to dread coming in now leave wondering why they waited so long. In this blog, we’ll answer the most common questions about sedation dentistry in a way that feels easy and approachable.

Let’s get into it.

How much does sleep dentistry cost?

One of the first questions people ask when they hear about sleep dentistry is what it costs. Like most things in healthcare, the answer depends on a few factors. The total cost of sedation dentistry varies based on the type of sedation used, how long the procedure takes, and whether it’s covered by insurance.

There are several types of sedation, and each comes with its own price tag. For example:

• Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is the most affordable option. It’s typically charged per visit and often ranges from about $50 to $150.
• Oral sedation involves taking a prescription pill before the procedure. This type is more moderate and usually costs between $200 and $500.
• IV sedation is deeper and may be required for complex procedures or patients with severe anxiety. It typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 or more, depending on the length of the appointment and the dentist’s credentials.
• General anesthesia, which is less common in a general dental office, is the most expensive. It’s usually performed in a hospital or specialized setting and can cost upwards of $1,500 or more.

Another thing to consider is whether sedation is optional or medically necessary. Some insurance providers may cover a portion of the cost if it’s deemed essential for a procedure, especially for patients with conditions that make traditional dental visits difficult or unsafe.

If you're worried about affordability, we always recommend talking to our front desk team. At Hillside Dental Care, we’re happy to walk you through your options and work with your budget. We also offer flexible financing plans that can make it easier to get the care you need without financial stress.

What dentist will put you to sleep?

If you're looking for a dentist who offers sleep dentistry, not every clinic is set up for it, so it’s worth doing your research. At Hillside Dental Care, we offer multiple types of sedation and are fully equipped to help patients feel safe and at ease.

Dentists who provide sleep dentistry usually have additional certifications or training in sedation techniques. While all general dentists can offer lighter sedation options like nitrous oxide, deeper methods such as IV sedation or general anesthesia typically require a special permit or collaboration with an anesthesiologist.

So how do you know if a dentist offers it? There are a few easy ways to find out:

• Check their website. Most clinics that provide sedation dentistry will mention it clearly on their services page.
• Call and ask. You can call the office and ask what types of sedation are available and which procedures they’re used for.
• Look at patient reviews. People who have had sedation will often mention their experience, which can give you insight into how the dentist handles anxiety, comfort, and safety.

At our office, we walk you through the entire process ahead of time. You’ll know what to expect, how to prepare, and what the day of the procedure will look like. Whether you’re getting a filling, extraction, or full smile restoration, we’ll talk with you about your comfort level and recommend the sedation option that fits your needs.

Choosing a dentist for sleep dentistry is a bit like choosing a pilot for a flight. You want someone with the right training, a calm demeanor, and a track record of safety and success. We’re proud to provide that peace of mind.

How does sleep dentistry work?

If you’re curious about how sedation dentistry actually works, let’s break it down. The name “sleep dentistry” is a little misleading because not every form of sedation puts you completely to sleep. Instead, it’s a spectrum of relaxation techniques designed to keep you calm, comfortable, and pain-free.

Here’s how the main types of sedation work:

1. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

This is the lightest form of sedation. You’ll wear a small mask over your nose and breathe in the gas, which kicks in within minutes. You’ll feel relaxed and even a little giddy, but you’ll stay awake and aware. Once the mask is removed, the effects wear off quickly. In fact, you can usually drive yourself home afterward.

2. Oral sedation

This involves taking a prescribed pill about an hour before your appointment. The most common medication is a drug like Halcion or Valium. It will make you drowsy, and many patients feel so relaxed that they don’t remember much of the appointment. You’ll need someone to drive you home, but you’ll feel like you’ve just had a long nap.

3. IV sedation

This is a deeper level of sedation administered through a vein. It works quickly and allows your dentist to adjust the level of sedation throughout the procedure. Most patients are still technically awake but deeply relaxed and unlikely to remember much. You’ll need a recovery period and someone to take you home.

4. General anesthesia

This is full unconsciousness, typically used in surgical or hospital settings. It’s rarely used in general dental practices, but it’s an option for highly complex cases or patients with extreme dental phobia.

Regardless of the method, your vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety. The goal isn’t just to keep you calm but to make your entire experience feel easier, faster, and more positive.

Why people are choosing sedation dentistry now more than ever

Sedation dentistry has seen a rise in popularity for good reason. Life is fast-paced. People want to get their dental work done without the extra stress, especially if they’ve had difficult experiences in the past.

But it’s not just for anxious patients. Sedation is also helpful if you:

• Have a strong gag reflex
• Struggle to sit still for long periods
• Need multiple procedures done in one visit
• Have very sensitive teeth
• Have a low pain threshold
• Are undergoing oral surgery or other complex treatment

Think of it as pressing a pause button on your worries. Your dentist takes care of everything, and you walk out feeling like time passed in a blink. It can completely change how you view going to the dentist.

What to expect before and after your visit

Before your appointment, we’ll go over your health history, discuss any medications you’re taking, and explain what kind of sedation will be used. We’ll give you easy instructions like avoiding food or drink for a certain number of hours before your appointment, depending on the sedation method.

After your visit, you’ll probably feel a little groggy, especially if you had oral or IV sedation. Plan to rest for the day and have someone stay with you for a few hours. Most people wake up feeling totally fine but may not remember much of the procedure. That’s part of what makes it such a smooth experience.

You’re not “extra” for needing sedation

We hear this all the time: “I know I’m being dramatic, but I just hate going to the dentist.” You’re not alone, and you’re not overreacting. Everyone has different comfort levels. Some patients are calm no matter what. Others can’t walk into a dental office without their heart racing. Sedation isn’t about being weak or dramatic. It’s about giving yourself permission to feel comfortable and safe.

If dental fear has held you back from getting the care you need, now’s the time to change that. You deserve to smile with confidence and enjoy good oral health without dread.

Ready to feel relaxed at your next appointment?

If sedation dentistry sounds like something you’d like to try, we’d love to talk to you. At Hillside Dental Care, we’ve helped countless patients go from nervous to totally at ease. Whether you want to explore light sedation or need something deeper, we’ll create a plan that works for you.

Call us today or use our online form to schedule your appointment. Let’s make your next visit a comfortable one.