Woman sitting in dental treatment chair

Sedation Dentistry

Is the fear surrounding a visit to the dentist preventing you from getting the care you need? You’re not alone. Fortunately, our practice in Albuquerque, NM, offers sedation dentistry to help patients relax safely while they undergo dental work. Learn more about how Dr. Steve L. Ollason can make your dental visits more comfortable with effective sedation options.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Dentist performing dental exam on woman
Sedation dentistry is the practice of using medication to help patients relax during a dental appointment. While local anesthesia numbs the treatment area, sedation dentistry calms a patient for a more comfortable visit. Sedation can be used alongside local anesthesia for an all but painless dental procedure.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Some of the benefits of sedation dentistry at our Albuquerque practice include:

Total Relaxation

You can feel entirely at ease throughout your dental procedure. Alleviated anxiety can work to improve the treatment experience at large.

Reduced Chair Time

With the proper dosage, patients can remain stationary for long periods and undergo extensive procedures in less time or fewer visits.

Customizable

Your dental goals are unique; your sedation will be, too. We will administer the proper dosage based on the work being done and your particular needs.

Improved Oral Health

Since patients know there’s a solution to their apprehension of visiting the dentist, they can get the care they need to maintain their dental health.

Prioritize Your Comfort With Premier Dentistry in Albuquerque, NM

Many of our patients have some form of dental phobia or anxiety — but these roadblocks shouldn’t dissuade them from receiving the dental work they need. Fortunately, our team is experienced in providing safe, effective sedation.

To learn more about sedatives our dentist can use, including pills and laughing gas, get in touch with our practice today!

(505) 275-1663

Dr. Steve Ollason

Popular Procedures Performed With Sedation Dentistry

You may be an excellent candidate for this type of dentistry if you have a dental phobia. There are other reasons patients opt for sedation, especially if you are receiving:

Minor Oral Surgery

There are several minor oral surgeries that can utilize sedation dentistry, including tooth extraction, root canal therapy, and dental implant placement.

Noninvasive Treatment

Some may feel uncomfortable about even the most routine procedures, such as fillings, scaling and root planing, and crown placement.

Cosmetic Procedures and Cleaning

Routine cleaning, smile makeovers, and other procedures that may promote oral health and address cosmetic concerns may employ sedation dentistry.

A Look at Our Sedation Options

The right sedation dentistry option for you will be determined by you and Dr. Ollason during your visit.
Woman with Nitrous Oxide mask on in treatment chair

Nitrous Oxide

Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask placed over your nose. The combination of nitrogen and oxygen can deliver relaxing effects within minutes, letting you remain conscious — but peaceful — during your dental work.

Woman with sedation pill and glass of water

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves taking a pill in the hours leading up to your appointment. This method offers deeper relaxation than its nitrous oxide counterpart and takes longer to wear off, which is why we recommend arranging for someone to take you to and from your appointment.

"Best dental experience I have ever had!" 5-Star Reviews From Our Albuquerque, NM, Patients

1

Anita Foster

2022

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My first visit was memorable for all the right reasons: pleasant, friendly professional staff, on-time and efficient exam - and Dr. Ollason was extremely helpful addressing concerns and questions. Best dental experience I have ever had! I am heading back for extensive work and have every confidence everything will go well.

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1

Charles Reado

2022

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Like most people, I  hate going to the dentist. However, Michelle, my dental hygienist is the best. All of my cleaning procedures have been painless. She is very professional pleasant and remembers my name during every visit.  I give NM Smile Center five stars.

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Candidates for Sedation Dentistry

Have Trouble Sitting Still

Feeling anxious can result in involuntary movements during your procedure, which prolongs your stay in the dental chair and makes it difficult for your dentist to provide treatment.

Have a Sensitive Gag Reflex

A strong gag reflex can make your dentistry procedures take longer than intended, which can make you even more uncomfortable and worsen your anxiety. Sedation relaxes your gag reflex.

Undergo Multiple or Complex Procedures

From tooth extraction to implant-supported crowns, some treatments involve more than one step. This type of dentistry lets your dentist work faster and more efficiently.

Certain underlying conditions can increase the risks of this type of dentistry, which is why we meet with you to assess your overall health and help make the right decision for you.

The Sedation Process Dentistry Made Comfortable

If you receive sedation, you will need a ride to and from your appointment.
If you receive sedation, you will need a ride to and from your appointment.

Consultation

Before undergoing any type of sedation, you will meet our dentist to review your medical history, dental care needs, and any fears you may face about the process.

This step is crucial in determining which option is the safest while meeting your anxiety-reducing goals.

Arranging Transportation

If he decides oral sedation is best for you, you will want to have a friend or family member drive you to and from your appointment.

Operating a vehicle immediately following oral conscious sedation can put you and others on the road at risk.

Follow Preparatory Instructions

Typically, oral sedation will be taken at home before your dental appointment.

You may receive instructions, which can include avoiding certain medications and restricting eating and drinking for a few hours before sedation, to ensure its efficacy.

Exploring the Cost of Sedation Dentistry

The cost of sedation dentistry depends on which type of sedation you receive, how much sedative is needed, and how long you’ll be sedated. Dr. Ollason will go over which option is best for you and what you can expect in terms of cost.

Unless deemed medically necessary, dental insurance does not cover the cost of sedation dentistry. However, since our practice is committed to making dental care accessible, we accept financing through CareCredit® to make out-of-pocket expenses more manageable.

"Dr. Ollason and his staff are awesome" More High Praise for Our Albuquerque, NM, Practice

1

Maida Delgado

2022

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Dr. Ollason and his staff are awesome. Since my initial visit, they greet me with the biggest smiles they comfort you and  treat you with respect. Thank you all, especially Dr.
Ollason.

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1

Cathy A.

2022

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Everyone I encountered at New Mexico Smile Center was extremely friendly and courteous!  The environment is sunny and bright and Dr Ollason is an outstanding  dentist.  *Highly recommend*.

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The team of dental professionals at New Mexico Smile Center

New Mexico Smile Center

Dr. Steve Ollason and the team at New Mexico Smile Center are dedicated to helping you create a healthy, radiant smile that lasts a lifetime. We are proudly affiliated with the: 

  • American Dental Association
  • New Mexico Dental Association

If you are ready to transform your smile, request a consultation online or call us at (505) 275-1663 to learn more

Contact Us Today

This is a great dental practice--you won't find better in Albuquerque. Dr. Ollason is an excellent dentist and a very personable fellow.

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