Dental Anxiety & Sedation Dentistry in Vancouver

Solutions for Overcoming Dental Fear

At New Image Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we want every patient to feel safe, calm, and confident about their dental care. If fear or anxiety has kept you from getting the treatment you need, we are here to help.

Dental Anxiety Is More Common Than You Thinkwoman with anxiety at the dentist

Studies show that up to 75% of Americans experience some level of dental anxiety, and nearly 20% avoid the dentist entirely because of it. If you’ve delayed treatment due to fear, you’re not alone — and you’re in the right place. Your comfort is always our first priority.

Dental Anxiety vs. Dental Phobia

Dental fear exists on a spectrum:

Dental Anxiety

Mild to moderate worry or nervousness about an upcoming appointment or procedure.

Dental Phobia

A more intense reaction that may cause overwhelming fear and lead patients to avoid care altogether.

No matter where you fall on this scale, our team is committed to helping you receive gentle, stress-free care.

How We Help: Comfortable Dentistry for Every Patient

Communicationwoman holding oral sedation pill

Let us know what you’re worried about. Often, simply understanding the procedure — the steps, the sensations, the “why” — greatly reduces fear. We explain everything before, during, and after treatment.

Calming Techniques

Breathing exercises, guided relaxation, and distraction methods can make a significant difference.

Listening to Music

Most procedures allow the use of personal headphones. Listening to your favorite music or podcast can help keep your mind at ease.

Taking Breaks

You’re always in control. If you need a moment during treatment, simply signal with your left hand.

Oral Sedation Options

For patients with higher levels of anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer a deeper sense of relaxation. We provide safe, monitored oral conscious sedation (often called “sleep dentistry”) to help you feel calm and comfortable.

Oral Sedation Dentistry

Do you experience significant dental anxiety? You may be a candidate for oral conscious sedation.
Dr. Perkins and Dr. Vasquez are Board Certified to safely administer this form of sedation.

Benefits of Oral Sedation

  • A relaxed, stress-free dental experience

  • Ability to sit comfortably through longer appointments

  • Multiple treatments can be completed in one visit

  • Reduced post-treatment discomfort

  • Little to no memory of the procedure

How Oral Sedation Works

Oral sedation typically involves taking an anti-anxiety medication before your appointment. These medications help you feel deeply relaxed yet responsive. You will remain awake, able to communicate, and breathing on your own — but calm and unbothered by the procedure.

Anti-Anxiety Medication (Benzodiazepines)

The most commonly used medications for oral sedation belong to the benzodiazepine family, such as:

  • Valium

  • Halcion

  • Xanax

  • Ativan

These medications work by calming the brain’s fear centers, helping you feel relaxed, comfortable, and less aware of the procedure.

Types of Benzodiazepines

Sedative-Hypnotic:
Encourages drowsiness and may lightly induce sleep.

Anti-Anxiety:
Targets anxiety and fear responses without putting you fully to sleep.

Dosage determines whether the medication acts mainly as a sedative or primarily as an anti-anxiety agent.

Important Safety Information

Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants, which means they must be used exactly as prescribed. Do not mix them with alcohol or other sedatives.

Transportation Requirement

If you take an oral sedation medication, you must have a responsible adult escort you to and from your appointment. You may feel drowsy or disoriented afterward.

When Benzodiazepines Should Not Be Used

Inform us if you have any of the following, as sedation may not be recommended:

  • Allergies to benzodiazepineswoman pregnant sitting in exam chair in Vancouver

  • Narrow-angle glaucoma

  • Pregnancy

  • COPD or severe respiratory issues

  • Congestive heart failure

  • Kidney or liver impairment

  • Depression, bipolar disorder, or psychosis

  • Chronic bronchitis

  • Any medications you’re currently taking (to avoid interactions)

Your safety is our top priority. We will review your medical history thoroughly before recommending sedation.

Don’t Let Fear Stand in the Way of Your Dental Health

A healthy mouth contributes to a healthy body — and we’re here to make getting the care you need as stress-free as possible.

We can help you overcome dental fear and finally feel comfortable at the dentist.

Call Today to Schedule Your Appointment

New Image Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
📞 New Image Cosmetic and Family Dentistry Phone Number (360) 604-7151