Our Treatments

Sedation Dentistry

From nitrous oxide to oral sedation to a board-certified dental anesthesiologist — we offer all three levels of sedation so every patient can receive the care they need in complete comfort.

Level 1: Nitrous Oxide→

Level 2: Oral Conscious Sedation→

Level 3: Dental Anesthesiologist

Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people avoid the care they need — and one of the most treatable. At Smith Family Dentistry, we believe that fear should never stand between a patient and a healthy smile. That's why we offer the full spectrum of sedation options, from the gentlest relaxation to complete unawareness under the care of a board-certified dental anesthesiologist.

Whatever your level of anxiety — or however complex your treatment needs — we have a sedation option that will work for you.

Level 1

Nitrous Oxide

Laughing Gas

Nitrous oxide — commonly known as laughing gas — is the lightest form of dental sedation and the most widely used. Administered through a small mask placed over the nose, it produces a pleasant, relaxed feeling within minutes. You remain fully conscious, can respond to instructions, and the effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed — making it safe to drive yourself home after your appointment.

Best For

Mild anxiety, routine procedures, children, patients who need to drive after their appointment.

Ask About Nitrous Oxide

Highlights

Takes effect within minutes
You remain awake and responsive throughout
Wears off quickly — safe to drive home
Easily adjustable during the procedure
Safe for most patients including children

Level 2

Oral Conscious Sedation

Prescription Sedative Medication

Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative medication — typically a benzodiazepine — before your appointment. By the time you arrive, you'll feel deeply relaxed, drowsy, and largely unaware of the procedure as it happens. You remain conscious and able to respond if needed, but most patients have little to no memory of the appointment afterward. Because the medication takes time to wear off, you'll need a driver to bring you home.

Best For

Moderate to significant dental anxiety, longer procedures, patients with a strong gag reflex, or those who want minimal memory of the visit.

Ask About Oral Sedation

Highlights

Deep relaxation — you're calm but conscious
Little to no memory of the procedure
Ideal for longer or more complex appointments
Prescription provided in advance
A driver is required for the day of treatment

Level 3 — Most Comprehensive

Dental Anesthesiologist

Board-Certified In-Office General Anesthesia

For patients who require the deepest level of sedation — including those with severe dental phobia, special healthcare needs, very young children, or those undergoing extensive treatment — we bring in a board-certified dental anesthesiologist to administer IV sedation or general anesthesia right here in our office. This allows us to complete complex, multi-procedure treatment plans in a single visit while you are completely unaware and fully comfortable. The anesthesiologist monitors you throughout the entire procedure.

Best For

Severe dental anxiety or phobia, special needs patients, young children requiring extensive treatment, complex multi-procedure cases.

Ask About Anesthesiologist Services

Highlights

Board-certified dental anesthesiologist on-site
IV sedation or general anesthesia available
Complete unawareness during treatment
Continuous monitoring throughout the procedure
Multiple procedures completed in a single visit

Sedation May Be Right for You If…

Sedation dentistry is not just for severe phobia — many patients benefit from some level of sedation. You may be a good candidate if any of the following apply:

You feel anxious or fearful about dental visits

You've avoided the dentist for years due to fear

You have a strong gag reflex

You have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia

You have special healthcare needs

You need extensive treatment completed efficiently

You have sensitive teeth or low pain tolerance

You're a child who is unable to cooperate for treatment

Not sure which level is right for you? Call us or request a consultation and we'll help you find the best option.

Comfortable Dental Care Is Possible

Don't let anxiety keep you from the care you deserve. Call our Greenville office and let us find the right sedation option for you — whatever your level of concern, we have a solution.

Call 903-455-5750 Request Appointment

← Back to All Treatments