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What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses safe and controlled medication to help patients feel calm during dental procedures. You remain monitored at all times while still receiving the high quality dental care you need.

Sedation is ideal for patients who:

  • Experience dental anxiety or fear
  • Have difficulty sitting still
  • Have a strong gag reflex
  • Need longer or complex treatments

Gentle Dental Rochester

150 Marketplace Blvd
Rochester, NH 03867

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Alternating Saturdays
Sunday CLOSED
More Information

Parking lot located in The Ridge plaza.

Gentle Dental Rochester

150 Marketplace Blvd
Rochester, NH 03867

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Alternating Saturdays
Sunday CLOSED

More Information

Parking lot located in The Ridge plaza.

Gentle Dental Rochester Reviews

  • SB

    Simoun Banoud

    Rochester,NH

    I truly can’t say enough great things about Dr. Israel, his assistant Lauren, and the hygienist Leah. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and genuinely cared for. The entire team creates such a calm and positive atmosphere that it actually makes going to the dentist something I look forward to! Dr. Israel is an outstanding dentist — incredibly knowledgeable, gentle, and attentive. He takes the time to explain every step of the process and makes sure you’re completely comfortable before proceeding. His professionalism and kindness really stand out. Lauren, his assistant, is wonderful — always organized, supportive, and caring. She and Dr. Israel work together so smoothly, which helps everything go efficiently and stress-free. Leah, the hygienist, is amazing at what she does. She’s so thorough but also gentle, and she offers really helpful tips without ever making you feel judged. Her friendly and calm demeanor makes cleanings a breeze. This team is everything you could ask for in dental care: skilled, compassionate, and truly dedicated to their patients. I recommend them wholeheartedly!

  • KG

    Katie Gallant

    Rochester, NH

    I have terrible dental anxiety which kept me from going to a dentist for almost 10 years. I knew I needed a lot of work done so I finally made the appointment here at Gentle Dental and I’m SO glad I did. These people are so incredibly kind and compassionate. They weren’t judgmental or pushy. They explained everything to me in detail and didn’t make me feel bad or rushed. I had cavities filled today for the first time in over 10 years by Dr. Israel and his assistant Jalyn and it was as great an experience as one can have at the dentist. They were so kind and calming, took tons of breaks and checked in. Truly could not have had a better experience. I will recommend this place and specifically Dr. Israel and Jalyn to anyone who will listen!!

  • AE

    Adnan Eghtesad

    Rochester, NH

    My visit to Gentle Dental was great. Dr. Entezari was super nice and friendly. He patiently listened to all my concerns and explained everything in detail. I asked a lot of questions as I am an engineer and curious. He answered all those questions very patiently and clearly. He is a very smart and talented dentist. He was able to polish my veneer in few minutes and I am very happy with the results. He is very experienced and skilled. He knows what he is doing. I will need to do filling on my teeth and he kindly fit me in his schedule on time. More importantly, he is caring, kind and loves to go beyond and that makes him special. Jalyn, his assistant was super nice and caring. She patiently took the X-Ray of my teeth and was speaking with me the entire time as a great host. She even took care of a wound on my finger that was bleeding for some reason. Not a tooth! Kindness is there. The staff at the front desk are also very nice, friendly and helpful. They are professional and explain things if there are any questions or concerns pertaining to the costs and insurance. Michelle, the office manager, is very nice and professional. She patiently explained to me why the new patient fee was not covered by my insurance since Aetna covered X-Ray only once every 5 years and I had used that once before seeing Gentle Dental. In conclusion, I strongly recommend Dr. Entezari and Gentle Dental folks as they are professional, caring, nice, kind, and helpful!

When Is Sedation Dentistry Used?

Sedation dentistry can be helpful in many different situations, especially for patients who feel anxious or uncomfortable about dental treatment. At Gentle Dental in Rochester, we may recommend sedation for the following reasons:

Dental Anxiety or Fear

If you feel nervous or fearful about dental visits, sedation dentistry can help you relax and stay comfortable throughout your appointment. This allows you to receive the care you need without stress.

Complex or Lengthy Procedures

Sedation may be recommended for treatments such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or root canal therapy. It helps patients remain calm and comfortable during longer or more involved procedures.

Strong Gag Reflex

Some patients have a sensitive gag reflex that can make dental treatment difficult. Sedation can reduce this reflex and make your experience smoother and more comfortable.

Medical Conditions Affecting Movement

Sedation dentistry can be beneficial for patients with medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or cerebral palsy, where staying still for extended periods may be challenging.

Patients With Special Needs

For individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, sedation dentistry can make dental visits more manageable, reducing anxiety and improving comfort.

Our team will always evaluate your health history and discuss the best sedation option for your needs to ensure a safe and positive experience.

Types of Sedation Options Available

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a small mask. It helps you feel calm and comfortable while remaining fully awake. The effects wear off quickly, so most patients can return to normal activities soon after treatment.

Oral Conscious Sedation

With oral sedation, you take a prescribed medication before your appointment. This creates a deeper sense of relaxation. You will remain aware but calm throughout the procedure. A companion will need to drive you home afterward.

Intravenous (IV) Sedation

IV sedation is administered by a trained professional and provides a deeper level of relaxation. This option is typically recommended for patients with severe anxiety or for complex dental procedures. Continuous monitoring ensures your safety at all times.

Preparing for Your Sedation Appointment

Pre Treatment Instructions

Before your appointment, we will review your medical history and provide instructions. These may include:

  • Avoiding food or drink for a set time period
  • Sharing any medications you currently take
  • Arranging transportation if needed

Your safety and comfort are always our priority.

What To Expect On The Day Of Your Procedure

When you arrive, our team will explain every step of your treatment so you feel informed and at ease. Once sedation begins, your dentist will complete your dental procedure while you remain relaxed and comfortable.

Benefits and Risks of Sedation Dentistry

Advantages of Choosing Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry offers many benefits, including:

  • Reduced anxiety and stress
  • Improved comfort
  • Fewer appointments for extensive treatments
  • A calmer overall experience

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Sedation dentistry is considered safe when administered by trained professionals. Some temporary side effects may include drowsiness or slower reaction time. Sedation may not be suitable for some medical conditions, which will be discussed during your consultation.

Post Procedure Care and Recovery

Recovery Timeline and Aftercare

Your recovery experience will depend on the type of sedation used during your visit. With nitrous oxide, most patients feel normal within minutes and can usually return to daily activities. With oral or IV sedation, it is common to feel drowsy or less alert for several hours. You may need a friend or family member to drive you home and plan to rest for the remainder of the day.

Our team will provide personalized aftercare instructions, including when to eat, drink, or resume normal routines. It is important to follow these guidelines closely so you can recover comfortably and safely.

When To Contact Your Dentist

While mild side effects such as grogginess or lightheadedness can be normal after sedation, you should contact our team right away if you experience ongoing nausea, breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding, severe pain, or anything that feels unusual.

We are here to support you after your appointment and want you to feel confident and comfortable during your recovery. If you have questions at any point, simply reach out to our Rochester dental team.

Why Choose Gentle Dental in Rochester?

At Gentle Dental in Rochester, your comfort, safety, and peace of mind come first. We understand that visiting the dentist can feel overwhelming, especially if you experience anxiety or have had difficult experiences in the past. Our caring team takes the time to listen, explain every step, and create a calm, supportive environment so you always feel cared for and understood.

Our sedation dentistry services are delivered by trained professionals using proven safety protocols and modern technology. Whether you need a simple cleaning or a more complex procedure, we tailor your care to your unique needs, sensitivities, and comfort level.

Patients choose Gentle Dental because we offer:

  • A compassionate, patient first approach
  • Experienced dentists and clinical staff
  • Multiple sedation options to support your comfort
  • Clear communication and gentle care
  • A welcoming and judgment free environment

Our goal is to help every patient feel relaxed, confident, and supported while receiving the high quality dental care their smile deserves. If you have been putting off dental treatment due to fear or anxiety, our team is here to help you feel safe and comfortable every step of the way.

How Much Does Dental Sedation Cost?

The cost of dental sedation can vary based on several factors, including the type of sedation used, the length of your appointment, and the complexity of your treatment. Generally, lighter forms of sedation tend to cost less, while deeper levels of sedation may involve a higher fee due to the additional monitoring and expertise required.

Factors that may influence cost include:

  • The type of sedation provided
  • The length of the procedure
  • Whether a specialist administers the sedation
  • Your individual treatment plan

Sedation dentistry may or may not be covered by dental insurance. In some cases, coverage is available when sedation is considered medically necessary. Our team at Gentle Dental in Rochester will review your benefits, discuss estimated costs in advance, and help you understand your payment options so there are no surprises.

Does Insurance Cover Sedation Dentistry?

Insurance coverage for sedation dentistry can vary depending on your plan and the reason sedation is being used. In some cases, insurance may cover sedation if it is considered medically necessary, such as for lengthy procedures, oral surgery, or patients with special healthcare needs. However, for patients using sedation primarily for anxiety or comfort, coverage may be limited or not included.

Dental Services In Rochester

Gentle Dental in Rochester, NH, offers a wide range of dental services, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and emergency dental care. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Explore our website for more information and to book an appointment with our skilled professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Be Able to Feel Pain with Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide helps you feel calm and relaxed, but your dentist will also use local anesthesia so you remain comfortable and should not feel pain during treatment.

Can I Drive After Oral Sedation?

No. Oral sedation can make you drowsy, so you will need a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment.

Is Oral Sedation Covered by Insurance?

Insurance coverage for oral sedation varies by plan and the reason it is used, so our team will help you review your benefits ahead of time.

Can a Root Canal Be Done Under Sedation?

Yes. Many patients choose sedation for root canal treatment to help them feel relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.

What Kind of Sedation Do Dentists Use?

Dentists commonly use nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, depending on the patient’s needs and the type of treatment being performed.

Book an Appointment

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If your request is a dental emergency, or you would like to call and schedule your dental appointment, contact information for our offices can be found here: Gentle Dental Locations. New patient offer not valid for emergency appointments.