Glendale, Arizona
Sedation Dentistry in Glendale, AZ
Fear, anxiety, or complex treatment needs should never keep you from the dental care you need. SmileScience Dental Spa offers the full spectrum of sedation, from light nitrous to IV sedation and general anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist, so you can receive comfortable care at every level.
Is This Right for You?
Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry
Sedation is not reserved for severe dental phobia. Many patients with reasonable anxiety or practical concerns choose sedation simply because it makes treatment more comfortable and efficient.
Your Options
Sedation Options at SmileScience
We offer the full spectrum of sedation. Dr. Dawson will recommend the level that matches your procedure, health history, and preferences.
Nitrous Oxide: Light Sedation
Inhaled through a small nasal mask, nitrous oxide produces a calm, relaxed feeling within minutes. You remain fully conscious and able to respond. Effects wear off within a few minutes of removing the mask. You can drive yourself home. Best for mild anxiety and shorter procedures.
Oral Conscious Sedation: Moderate
A prescription-strength benzodiazepine taken by mouth before your appointment. You will feel drowsy and deeply relaxed, though still conscious. Most patients have little to no memory of the appointment. A driver is required to take you home. Best for moderate anxiety and procedures of any length.
IV Sedation: Deep (Twilight)
Medication delivered intravenously produces deep relaxation that can be adjusted in real time. You are deeply relaxed with minimal awareness and virtually no memory of the procedure. At SmileScience, IV sedation is administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist (not Dr. Dawson) who focuses exclusively on your sedation while Dr. Dawson treats you. A driver is required. Best for surgical cases, significant anxiety, and complex multi-procedure appointments.
General Anesthesia: Full Unconsciousness
You are completely unconscious and unaware throughout the procedure. General anesthesia is administered and managed entirely by a board-certified anesthesiologist in our office. Reserved for the most complex surgical cases, patients with severe phobia, and medically complex patients requiring dedicated anesthesiologist oversight. A driver and responsible adult at home for the day are required.
A Key Differentiator
Board-Certified Anesthesiologist On Site
Many dental offices offer "IV sedation" administered by the treating dentist. At SmileScience, IV sedation and general anesthesia are managed by a board-certified anesthesiologist who comes to our office specifically for your appointment.
This means two specialists in the room: one focused entirely on your sedation and safety, and one focused entirely on your dental treatment. It is the same model used in hospital operating rooms, and it is a significant safety distinction.
- Continuous vital sign monitoring: heart rate, blood pressure, O2 saturation, respiratory rate
- Reversal medications and emergency equipment on-site
- Thorough medical history review before sedation selection
- Physician-level oversight for medically complex patients
What to Expect on a Sedation Day
- Step 1
For oral, IV, or general anesthesia sedation, you will receive fasting instructions (typically nothing to eat or drink for 6 to 8 hours before your appointment). A driver must accompany you. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
Pre-Appointment Instructions
Arrival and Pre-Sedation Check
Step 2Vital signs are taken when you arrive. For IV sedation and general anesthesia, the anesthesiologist reviews your health history, places monitoring leads, and establishes IV access before any medication is given.
- Step 3
Sedation is administered and the team waits until you are at the appropriate comfort level before beginning treatment. For IV sedation and GA, the anesthesiologist manages your sedation depth throughout while Dr. Dawson treats you.
Sedation Induction
Treatment
Step 4Your procedure is completed while you are comfortable and largely unaware. More treatment is often completed in a single sedation visit, reducing your total number of appointments.
- Step 5
You are monitored in our recovery area until you are stable. Your driver takes you home. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Most patients resume light activities the following morning.
Recovery and Discharge
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Yes, when performed by appropriately trained practitioners on medically suitable patients. Lighter sedation carries minimal risk for healthy adults. Deeper sedation, including IV sedation and general anesthesia, carries more risk, which is why SmileScience uses a board-certified anesthesiologist for these cases. A thorough health history review ensures the right sedation level is matched to your medical profile.
Not technically. IV sedation produces a state of deep relaxation and minimal awareness, often called "twilight sedation." Most patients can still respond to verbal cues if necessary but have no memory of the procedure. General anesthesia is the option that produces complete unconsciousness.
Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes after the mask is removed. Oral sedation can leave you drowsy for several hours; full mental clarity may not return until the following morning. IV sedation effects typically resolve within a few hours, though you should not drive or make important decisions for 24 hours. Plan for adult supervision at home if needed.
Coverage varies significantly by plan. Nitrous oxide is sometimes covered. IV sedation and general anesthesia are less commonly covered for routine procedures but may be covered when medically necessary, for example, for patients with documented anxiety disorders or special needs. Our team will help you verify your benefits before your appointment.
For nitrous oxide, no fasting is required. For oral sedation, light fasting is typically recommended. For IV sedation and general anesthesia, you must not eat or drink anything, including water, for 6 to 8 hours before your appointment. Specific instructions will be provided when you schedule.
It depends on the level. Nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation are administered by Dr. Dawson, who holds OCS certification in Arizona. IV sedation and general anesthesia are administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist who comes specifically to our office for these cases. This two-provider model is the same standard used in hospital operating rooms.
Yes. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation can be used for routine cleanings if anxiety makes them difficult. Many patients who have avoided the dentist for years use sedation for their first few visits until they feel comfortable. There is no procedure too small to justify sedation if it helps you receive care.
Some medical conditions require adjustments to sedation protocol or limit which levels are safe. Obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, uncontrolled hypertension, certain respiratory conditions, and some medications can affect sedation planning. Your full medical history is reviewed before any sedation is recommended. In some cases, we may consult with your physician before proceeding.
Sedation fees vary by level and length. Nitrous oxide is typically a low per-visit add-on. Oral sedation is a moderate fee. IV sedation and general anesthesia carry a higher fee due to the anesthesiologist. Many patients find that completing more treatment per sedation visit actually reduces total appointments and total cost over time. We provide a clear fee estimate before scheduling any sedation appointment.
Yes. Patients with a history of painful or frightening dental experiences are excellent candidates for sedation. Because sedation produces amnesia for most patients, each sedation visit replaces a potential negative memory with essentially no memory. Over time, many patients become more comfortable with dental care generally and require less sedation as trust builds.
Is Sedation Right for You?
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Most patients with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or complex treatment needs qualify for at least one level of sedation. Here is what we look for.
Severe Dental Anxiety
Patients who have avoided the dentist for years due to fear. Sedation provides a genuine reset.
Strong Gag Reflex
Sedation significantly reduces gag sensitivity, enabling procedures that are otherwise difficult to complete.
Multiple Procedures in One Visit
Sedation allows far more treatment time without fatigue, distress, or discomfort -- fewer appointments overall.
Physical or Cognitive Challenges
Conditions that make staying still difficult benefit greatly from deeper sedation -- where staying cooperative is not required.
History of Traumatic Dental Experiences
Sedation breaks the cycle of anxiety. Most patients form far more positive associations with dental care after a sedation visit.
Difficulty Getting Numb
Anxiety-driven heightened sensitivity is a real phenomenon. Sedation addresses the neurological component that makes local anesthetic less effective in anxious patients.
When Additional Planning is Needed
IV sedation requires additional planning for certain respiratory conditions, some medications (including benzodiazepines and MAOIs), pregnancy, obstructive sleep apnea, and uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions. Your full medical history is reviewed at every sedation appointment. This review is not a barrier to care -- it is how we match the right sedation level safely to your profile. The vast majority of patients qualify for at least one level.
Transparent Pricing
What Does Sedation Cost?
Sedation fees vary by type and case length. Here is a general guide to what to expect, along with how we handle estimates.
Nitrous Oxide
$50 -- $100
per visit, light sedation
No fasting required. You drive yourself home.
Oral Conscious Sedation
$150 -- $300
moderate sedation
Driver required. Most patients remember little to nothing.
IV Sedation
Case-Specific
written estimate provided
Anesthesiologist fee quoted in your pre-appointment estimate.
The Value of Combining Sedation with Longer Appointments
Many patients find that combining sedation with a longer appointment -- completing multiple procedures in one visit -- reduces total treatment cost compared to multiple shorter visits. Fewer appointments also means less time off work and fewer co-pays or visit fees. We will discuss this approach with you at your consultation.
Sedation Dentistry Glossary
Medical Review & Evidence
- Arizona Board of Dental Examiners: Oral Conscious Sedation Permit Requirements. azdental.gov
- American Dental Association: Policy on the Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia by Dental Professionals. ada.org
- American Society of Anesthesiologists: Practice Guidelines for Sedation and Analgesia by Non-Anesthesiologists. asahq.org
IV sedation and general anesthesia at SmileScience are administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist, not by the treating dentist. This two-provider model mirrors the standard of care in hospital operating rooms.
4.9 (437 reviews)
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Smile Science Dental Spa, and I couldn't be more impressed with the level of care and service provided by the entire team. Dr. Dawson and Dr. Turke are both incredibly skilled and made me feel completely at ease throughout my procedures. Their professionalism, combined with their gentle approach, made me feel comfortable and well-informed every step of the way. I was especially impressed that I was able to get a same-day crown(apparently their first ever!), which exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t believe how quick and seamless the process was. It really saved me time and made the experience even more convenient. Cindiray and Angeles, the dental assistants, were equally wonderful. They were not only friendly and attentive but also thorough in explaining everything and made sure I was relaxed during each phase of my visit. Lastly, a big thank you to Litzy at the front desk, who greeted me with a smile and helped with scheduling and any questions I had. She made the entire check-in process a breeze. From start to finish, my experience at Smile Science Dental Spa was exceptional. I'll be returning for sure. I highly, highly, highly recommend them for anyone looking for high-quality dental care.
View Full Review on GoogleDusty
Honestly I’ve never been so happy to go to the dentist. I came in (late due to Lyft) and was still taken care of and treated with care. Even without insurance (kicking in within the next month) prices for an extraction on my infected tooth were more than reasonable. I was able to get more than expected done in the same visit. Dr. Dawson and his team made me feel so comfortable and taken care of. Won’t go anywhere else.
View Full Review on GoogleCherish B
I recently started as a patient after leaving our long-time family Dentist and couldn’t be happier! Marcela is AMAZING and a FANTASTIC hygienist!!!! 😃 Dr Dawson is great too! Every time I visit, they make me feel like family.
View Full Review on GoogleTJ Winzeler
Myself and my family had previously gone to Dr. Turk at another dental office that he worked at. He had relocated and we did not know where he had gone to until this week. Today I got in with Dr. Turk and he took the time to look at my x-rays carefully . I was having pain from a tooth and some other issues. The previous Dentist I went to that I saw just a few days earlier, he did not find any issues with my tooth which I had pain in. Dr. Turk identified infection and referred me to an endodontist. He is very gentle as a wonderful disposition and my self and my family are thrilled to be able to get back with him. The office is lovely, relaxing music, heat and massage chair.I have always been very nervous and some anxiety going to dentist as I have had bad reactions with the anesthesia. I am confident that Dr. Kirk will help me get through my next appointment just fine. “The staff are very kind and attentive. I am looking forward as I have quite a bit of work to be done, and I know I’m in good hands with Dr. Turk and his staff. Five stars!⭐️ Sherry
View Full Review on GoogleSherry Redmond
I recently moved to Arizona and had an issue with a tooth repair from 15 years back. Not knowing anyone here in my new home, I searched dentists close to me. I chose Smile Science much like pinning the tail on the donkey and my selection couldn't have been better! What a terrific staff! Dr. Turke was concerned the tooth would need to be extracted, but said he wanted to take a shot at saving it..and that's just what he did! After setting a temporary crown, I was on my way with an appointment to install the permanent crown in the following two weeks. That evening I received a call I've never received from a dentist. Dr. Turke had taken the time to follow up with me to make sure I wasn't in any discomfort..I was completely caught off guard by this kind of attention to detail and caring for my well being. The permanent crown is now in place, it fits and feels fantastic, the job and treatment are first class! Thank you, Dr. Turke and staff for taking in this stray and giving me a home dentist! I'd like to say that I'm just good at selecting blindly, but the truth is I am very lucky..and I'll take lucky over being good any day of the week! Thank you, again and Happiest of New Year's in 2026, Science Smile!!
View Full Review on GoogleEddy
Comfortable Dental Care Is Possible
Contact SmileScience Dental Spa in Glendale to discuss which sedation option fits your procedure and comfort level. We work with patients at every level of dental anxiety.