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◆ Save $500 on Invisalign
Includes our 3-year results guarantee with 2 rounds of refinements
We work with CareCredit to make treatment affordable. Apply in minutes with no hard credit pull.
If the thought of sitting in a dental chair makes your heart race, you are far from alone. Research published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that nearly 73% of U.S. adults report some level of dental fear, and for many of them, that fear keeps them from getting the care they need. Skipped appointments can quietly turn small problems into larger ones, all while the anxiety itself grows stronger. At White Pine Family Dental, we want every patient in Reno to feel genuinely comfortable, which is why we offer sedation dentistry options designed for real lives and real worries.
At White Pine Family Dental, our approach is built around you. Dr. Prince and Dr. Papez-Berg take time to understand what makes you nervous and to find the right level of relaxation for your specific needs. Whether you need a light calming effect or a deeper state of ease for a longer procedure, we have options that can help. For patients considering their first visit to our office, we encourage you to share any concerns upfront so we can plan your care accordingly. Our doctors have been serving Reno families for over 30 years, and we believe no one should delay dental care because of fear.
Sedation dentistry uses safe, controlled methods to help you feel relaxed during dental procedures. It does not put you to sleep the way general anesthesia does. Instead, conscious sedation keeps you aware and able to respond while quieting the anxiety, sensitivity, and discomfort that often make dental visits feel overwhelming. It is a practical tool that allows our team to provide the full care you need in a calmer, more comfortable setting.
According to the American Dental Association, inhaled nitrous oxide combined with oxygen is one of the most widely used and well-established sedation methods in dentistry, with a strong safety record when properly administered. At White Pine Family Dental, all sedation is carefully monitored throughout your visit.
We offer two sedation options based on your comfort level, health history, and the type of care you are receiving.
Often called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a mild, inhaled sedative delivered through a small mask placed comfortably over your nose. Within a few minutes, most patients notice a calming, pleasant sensation that settles anxiety and reduces sensitivity without causing drowsiness or loss of awareness. You stay fully conscious, can hear us, and can respond throughout the procedure. One of the biggest advantages of nitrous oxide is how quickly its effects clear once the mask is removed. In most cases, you can drive yourself home afterward and continue your normal day with no lingering effects. Nitrous oxide works well for patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety, those who need a short appointment, or anyone who simply wants a more relaxed experience.
For patients who need a deeper level of relaxation, oral sedation involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment. The medication induces a calm, drowsy state that many patients find makes time pass quickly. You remain conscious and can still respond if we need to check in with you, but you will likely feel quite relaxed and may not remember much of the visit afterward. Because the effects of oral sedation last longer than nitrous oxide, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you to and from our office. Our team will walk you through everything you need to know before your appointment so there are no surprises.
The cost of sedation varies by type. Nitrous oxide is generally the more affordable option, while oral sedation typically ranges from $150 to $500 depending on the medication prescribed, dosage, and length of your procedure. Most dental insurance plans do not cover sedation as a standalone benefit, though coverage may apply when sedation is part of a medically necessary procedure. If you are unsure whether your plan covers sedation, our team will review your benefits with you before your appointment.
Sedation dentistry can be a helpful option for many different types of patients. You may want to ask us about sedation if you experience any of the following:
If you are unsure whether sedation is right for you, simply mention your concerns when you call or schedule your appointment. Our team will help you decide which option fits your situation best.
We also understand that fear often comes with embarrassment about how long it has been since a last visit. Our team holds no judgment, only the genuine goal of helping you feel better about your oral health and your relationship with dental care. Related resources on managing dental anxiety and phobia are available if you want to learn more before your visit.
Have questions before your appointment? Here are the answers our Reno patients ask most often.
White Pine Family Dental is a family-owned and operated practice with a singular focus: making our patients’ lives better through exceptional oral health care. Our doctors have cared for Reno families for over 30 years, and our whole team takes pride in creating a calm, welcoming environment where every patient feels known and respected.
If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you deserve, we are ready to help. Contact our Reno office to schedule your appointment and learn more about our sedation dentistry options. We look forward to helping you feel comfortable, confident, and in control of your oral health.
Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Phone: (775) 825-6655
Fax: (775) 825-8691
