Sedation | Juanita Bay Dentist Skip to main content

Sedation

We pride ourselves on gentle dentistry, and our sedation options give extra help to patients who need it to relax in the dentist’s chair. This can be especially helpful for longer or more involved procedures.

Dr. Downing Moua and Dr. Thomas Vu are licensed to provide this service and have offered safe, effective ways to relax for over 20 years. Their hospital training and careful patient selection help keep each of our patients as safe as possible.

Who Should Request Sedation?

This option is an excellent add-on for anyone who feels anxious, nervous, or scared, has a sensitive gag reflex, or simply wants to feel as relaxed as possible. We also recommend it if you need multiple procedures, since it helps you stay at ease during a longer appointment.

Smiling woman with brown hair reclined in a blue dental chair as a masked provider holds a mouth mirror and probe

Types of Sedation Offered

Sedation can help you relax in the dental chair, whether you feel nervous, have a sensitive gag reflex, or need a longer appointment. Dr. Downing Moua and Dr. Thomas Vu are licensed to provide sedation, and every patient has a medical screening first. We offer two options.

Laughing gas is a gentle and fast-acting analgesic sedative. You’re completely alert, but it feels as if you’ve had a couple of glasses of wine. Nitrous oxide starts working within just a few minutes and is just as quick to reverse at the conclusion of your procedure. You can even drive yourself home afterward.

Quick to Start, Quick to Wear Off

You breathe the gas through a small mask over your nose and stay awake the whole time. Once the mask is removed, the effects fade in about 5 to 10 minutes, so you can head home on your own.

“The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.”

American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, “Nitrous Oxide”

Occasionally we also offer conscious oral sedation, which is similar to taking Xanax combined with nitrous oxide gas. Although you’re still conscious of what’s going on around you, you simply don’t care much about it all. This sedation option does take a little extra time to wear off, so you’ll need to have a friend or family member drive you to and from your appointment.

Minimal Sedation Helps You Relax While Staying Awake

With oral sedation, you stay aware of what’s happening but feel much more at ease. Because the medicine can take several hours to fully wear off, plan for someone to drive you home.

“Minimal sedation will help you relax, but you will likely be awake.”

American Society of Anesthesiologists, “Sedation”

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there complications from sedation?

Adverse reactions to sedation medications are extremely rare. To minimize potential risks, each patient undergoes an extensive medical screening prior to their planned procedure.

Can sedation help if I have a sensitive gag reflex?

Absolutely. If you have a hyperactive gag reflex that makes dental treatment difficult, sedation can naturally help calm it.

Is sedation covered by my insuance?

Oral medications are usually covered by your insurance, but nitrous typically is not. Fortunately, the fee for laughing gas is quite modest, making it accessible to most of our patients even if they don’t have insurance coverage.

How long does it take for the sedative to wear off?

Nitrous oxide sedation is reversible within 5-10 minutes and there are no lingering after- effects. However, if you take an oral medication for your procedure it can take several hours to completely wear off.

Can I have nitrous oxide added to my appointment?

Feel free to request laughing gas during any dental procedure, whether it’s a cleaning or something like a crown. Nitrous is easy to add on when you’re feeling a little anxious and just need to take the edge off.

Can I eat or drink anything prior to my sedation appointment?

We try to schedule sedation appointments early in the morning when you feel well rested. It’s best to come in on an empty stomach, just in case you get a little queasy.

Is sedation safe for my child?

Nitrous oxide sedation is routinely used on children and teens during their required dental care.

Request Our Sedation Options for Your Next Visit

Our sedation dentistry puts your comfort first and gives you the peace of mind you deserve. Just let us know when you book your next appointment.

Contact Us

Contact Info

11321A NE 120th St
Kirkland, WA 98034

Phone: 425-823-1600

Kirkland Dentist

Office Hours

Mon-Thur: -
Fri, Sat & Sun: Closed

©2026 Juanita Bay Dentist. Designed and Managed by ViziSites. Terms of Use. Website Accessibility. Privacy Policy

Close Menu