Terrified of the dentist? You aren’t alone. Nearly 3 out of every 10 American adults avoid the dentist because of fear and anxiety. If your heart races at the thought of sitting in a dental chair, you know exactly how that feels.
At Valley Dental Health, we don’t expect you to “get over it.” We help you get through it. We use dental sedation to provide general dental care services with minimal pain and discomfort.
In Maryland, IV sedation is only available through specially trained oral surgeons and dentists. Dr. Roham Rafat is certified in Maryland to administer IV sedation to patients at our Cockeysville dental office. We also offer oral sedation and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax completely during your visit. You deserve a healthy smile. Let us help you get there without the fear.
We proudly serve patients from Cockeysville, Timonium, Hunt Valley, Lutherville, Sparks, Phoenix, and all surrounding communities.
Is Sedation Dentistry Right for You?
You may be a candidate for sedation dentistry if you have:
- ☐ Extreme dental anxiety or fear, even for routine cleanings
- ☐ A strong gag reflex that makes procedures difficult
- ☐ Difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia
- ☐ Sensitive teeth that make cleanings uncomfortable
- ☐ Trouble sitting still for long periods
- ☐ A low pain threshold
- ☐ Complex dental needs requiring multiple procedures
- ☐ Previous traumatic dental experiences
Not sure? Call us at 443-733-6613. We will help you determine the best option for your comfort.
Which Type of Sedation Is Right for You?
| Sedation Type | Best For | You Will Feel | Memory of Procedure | You Need a Ride |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) | Mild anxiety, routine cleanings | Relaxed, calm, awake | Yes | No |
| Oral Sedation (Pill) | Moderate anxiety, longer procedures | Very relaxed, may fall asleep | Little to none | Yes |
| IV Sedation (Sleep Dentistry) | Severe anxiety, complex cases, multiple procedures | Deeply relaxed, often asleep | Almost none | Yes |
| Oraverse® (Anesthesia Reversal) | Numbness after procedures | Normal feeling returns quickly | Yes | No |
We will help you choose the right option during your consultation.
Nitrous Oxide, Or Laughing Gas
Nitrous oxide has been used for many years in dentistry. The patient inhales it through a special mask that sits over the nose. The gas simply induces a deep state of relaxation in the patient. You’ll stay fully awake and cooperative during treatment. Nitrous oxide is the safest and most helpful method in sedation dentistry.
Laughing gas is only effective while you wear the mask. Once we place the mask on your face, you will begin to feel very relaxed, almost like your body is going numb. But most people remain awake during treatment and can move and talk normally.
Once we are done, we will remove the mask, and the sedative effects will cease right away. You can go back to your normal routine.
IV Sedation Dentistry
We are among the few dentists in Hunt Valley who provide IV sedation dentistry. This method involves giving medication directly into the bloodstream for precise and closely monitored sedation.
The primary benefit of IV sedation dentistry is that patients can feel immediately relaxed. Your Valley Dental Health team can perform multiple treatments at once while you’re relaxed and calm. The effects will last, so you’ll need to plan a ride home.
Oraverse®
We also offer Oraverse®, a special medication that helps reverse the effects of dental anesthesia. After some dental treatments, your mouth may feel numb for several hours. It can make it hard to talk, eat, or smile comfortably. Oraverse® speeds up the return of normal feeling in your lips, cheeks, and tongue.
We give Oraverse® as a quick injection after your procedure. It helps reduce common side effects like drooling, slurred speech, or accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
IV Sedation: “Sleep Dentistry” for Severe Anxiety
IV sedation is the deepest level of sedation we offer (without going into general anesthesia). It’s best for patients with:
- Severe dental phobia or past trauma
- Complex dental needs requiring multiple procedures
- Difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia
- A strong gag reflex
It works by delivering medication directly into your bloodstream through a small IV line. Dr. Rafat can adjust the level of sedation continuously during your procedure, ensuring you remain comfortable at all times.
Patient Review
What to Expect: Before, During, and After Sedation
Before Your Appointment
- You will receive specific instructions based on your sedation type
- For oral or IV sedation, arrange for a trusted driver to bring you to and from your appointment
- Eat a light meal as instructed (typically 2 hours before for oral sedation; fasting may be required for IV sedation)
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Remove jewelry and contact lenses beforehand
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for 24 hours prior
During Your Appointment
- We will monitor your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels) throughout the procedure
- You will feel deeply relaxed within minutes
- Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterward
- We can complete multiple procedures in one visit, saving you time
After Your Appointment
- You will need a driver to take you home
- Rest for the remainder of the day
- Don’t operate heavy machinery, drive, or make important decisions for 24 hours
- Stick to soft foods and stay hydrated
- Most patients feel back to normal by the next day
Why Choose Valley Dental Health for Sedation Dentistry?
- IV Sedation Certified. Dr. Roham Rafat is one of the few dentists in the Cockeysville area certified by the state of Maryland to administer IV sedation. This advanced training means you can receive deep sedation without referral to an outside specialist.
- Safe and Monitored. Your safety is our top priority. Throughout your procedure, we continuously monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. Our team is trained in advanced life support protocols.
- Experience with Anxious Patients. We have helped hundreds of self-described “terrified” patients receive the dental care they need. From routine cleanings to full-mouth reconstructions, we will go at your pace.
- All-in-One Convenience. Because we offer all levels of sedation (nitrous oxide, oral, and IV), we can tailor your experience to your exact needs. No referrals to outside clinics.
Your Comfort is Our Priority
- Massage Chairs: Relax in our spa-like operatories
- Warm Blankets: Stay cozy during your procedure
- TV & Music: Bring headphones or watch your favorite show
- Calming Environment: Natural light, relaxing decor
Affordable Sedation Dentistry
Does insurance cover sedation? Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of sedation costs, especially when sedation is deemed medically necessary due to anxiety or complex treatment needs. Our team will verify your benefits and explain your out-of-pocket costs before any treatment begins.
No insurance? Ask about our KLEER Dental Membership Program or financing options through CareCredit to make sedation affordable.
Typical sedation costs (before insurance):
- Nitrous Oxide: 50-150 per visit
- Oral Sedation: 150-300 per visit
- IV Sedation: 300-600 per visit
Note: these are just estimates. We will provide a clear, written estimate during your consultation.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Do you want to learn more? Read through our FAQs section to see if your question is addressed there. If not, please feel free to reach out to our office. We can answer your questions.
Will I be completely asleep?
No. Sedation dentistry isn’t general anesthesia. You remain conscious and able to respond to commands. However, most patients have little to no memory of the procedure and feel as though they “slept through it.”
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes. When administered by a trained, certified IV sedation professional, sedation dentistry is very safe. We monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure.
Can I eat before my appointment?
For oral sedation, you may eat a light meal up to 2 hours before. For IV sedation, you will need to fast (no food or drink) for 6-8 hours before. We will give you specific instructions.
How long does it take to wear off?
Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes. Oral sedation typically wears off within 2-4 hours. IV sedation may take 4-8 hours. You will need a driver for oral or IV sedation.
Can I get sedation for just a cleaning?
Absolutely. If you have dental anxiety, we can provide nitrous oxide or oral sedation even for routine cleanings. You don’t need to have major work done to qualify.
Do you offer sedation for children?
Yes, for older children and teens with significant anxiety or special needs, we offer nitrous oxide. Call us to discuss your child’s specific situation.
Can you eat before dental sedation?
If you do eat before your procedure, we recommend a light meal. You also want to hydrate before your appointment. You may eat and drink up to two hours before your appointment, but you must fast after this point so the sedation can take full effect.
Are you awake during dental sedation?
Dental sedation isn’t like general anesthesia. You will stay awake but will feel very calm and at ease. You shouldn’t feel any pain while under dental sedation. You will remain conscious and able to communicate with your dentist.
What should you NOT do before sedation?
We recommend that you avoid drinking and smoking for at least 24 hours before the appointment. You also want to remove all jewelry and wear loose, comfortable clothing.
If you are a diabetic, we ask that you check your blood sugar the day of your procedure. Please report the results back to us before we begin.
Do you feel pain with oral sedation?
No. You shouldn’t feel pain while under oral sedation. If you do, let us know. We have certified, experienced dentists who will ensure you are fully comfortable.
Do you remember anything after sedation?
You may not remember what happened during your dental procedure, depending on the type of sedation used. If you get laughing gas, you will stay awake and aware but feel calm and comfortable. Once the gas wears off, most people remember their visit. But with stronger forms of sedation, like oral or IV sedation, you may have little or no memory of the procedure afterward.
Ready to Overcome Your Fear of the Dentist?
You don’t have to live with dental anxiety. You don’t have to avoid the care you need. Dr. Rafat and Dr. Izadi are here to help you feel safe, comfortable, and in control.
Call our Cockeysville office at 443-733-6613 to schedule your anxiety-free consultation. We will discuss your fears, answer your questions, and create a plan that puts your comfort first. You can also request an appointment online. We welcome new patients from Timonium, Sparks, Phoenix, Jacksonville, Hunt Valley, Lutherville, Cockeysville, Baltimore, and nearby areas.