People will often avoid going to their dentist for regular checkups until they are in pain and can’t avoid it. They will make and then cancel appointments and reschedule checkups for years because of fear or dental anxiety. If the thought of visiting the dentist to get your teeth cleaned or examined makes you feel tense, you will be relieved to know that you can reduce your anxiety and get the care you need.
Radiance Dental offers a range of sedation dentistry options to help patients feel more relaxed and relieve their stress associated with visiting the dentist regardless of the treatment or procedure. Rather than missing out on necessary dental treatments, ask Dr. Bharathi about trying one of the following dental sedation techniques we offer.
Oral Sedation and Nitrous Oxide
Two of the most popular types of sedation dentistry options are oral sedation and nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas. Read on to understand both options in more detail.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation involves giving you a sedative to reduce your anxiety and fear when performing a dental procedure. Oral medication is given to the patient before the procedure to induce a moderate sedation state, making you tired and relaxed but not meant to make you wholly unconscious or unresponsive like general anesthesia. The oral medication offers short-term relaxation and can work very well for patients with mild dental fear.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is breathed and causes happiness and euphoria, works quickly and leaves the body fast. Nitrous oxide can be perfect for younger patients because they tend to accept it without any side effects.
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is used as a mild sedative. It is administered through a nose hood during the entire procedure. Nitrous oxide relieves anxiety and diminishes pain throughout the procedure while elevating your mood, which is where the term “laughing gas.” originated. Outside of some minor numbness or tingling, there are very few side effects from nitrous oxide. It is very safe and has been used by dentists daily for decades. In addition, you or your child are completely awake and can reply to instructions or questions during the procedure.
Which Type of Sedation Dentistry Is Best for You?
Are you over being afraid to go to the dentist in Camas, WA? If you’re unhappy with your smile and suffer from dental fear, we can help you with sedation for your next dental treatment. Please feel free to contact our office in Camas, WA, to schedule your appointment. Our doctor, Dr. Bharathi Charugundla, will discuss our sedation dentistry choices with you and find the best option for you.
Camas, Vancouver & Washougal Dental Emergency & Restorative Triage Guide
Evaluation Methodology: We triage dental symptoms based on acute pain severity, infection risk, tooth vitality window, and clinical urgency. Use this clinical triage table before arriving at Radiance Dental (19301 SE 34th St, Suite 101, Camas, WA 98607 · (360) 844-2141):
| Symptom / Dental Condition | Triage Window | Immediate First Step at Home | Common In-Office Treatment & 2026 Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Adult Tooth | Immediate urgent care (ideally within 30–60 minutes) | Hold by the crown only (do not touch root); place in cold milk or socket | Re-implantation & splinting, or 3D dental implant ($3,000–$6,000) |
| Severe Throbbing Toothache or Gum Swelling | Same-day office evaluation for acute pulpitis or abscess | Warm salt-water rinse; cold compress on cheek (never place aspirin on gums) | Gentle root canal therapy ($700–$1,500+) or extraction ($150–$650) |
| Broken Tooth or Lost Dental Crown | Prompt restorative care within 24–48 hours | Save the crown; keep area clean and avoid chewing hard foods on that side | Crown recementation, composite bonding ($360–$2,150), or new crown ($1,000–$1,500+) |
Need Urgent or Restorative Care? Call (360) 844-2141 or Request an Appointment Online.
$99 New-Patient Exam & X-Rays
Experience gentle, personalized family & cosmetic dentistry with Dr. Bharathi. Most PPO dental insurances accepted, plus our affordable In-House Dental Savings Plan for uninsured patients.
