Dental Sedation
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The medical/dental/health information on this site is provided as an informational resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnosis or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to educate the patient, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical/dental advice, diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your health care provider before making any health-related decisions. For more info, contact Natural Dentistry Center for an appointment.
Dental sedation is a valuable tool used in modern dentistry to support patient comfort, reduce anxiety, and improve procedural outcomes. While sedation is not used routinely, it plays a critical role in specific cases where local anesthesia alone may not be sufficient. Our approach emphasizes minimal intervention, safety, and whole-body wellness while always prioritizing the individual needs of each patient.
Dental Sedation in Biological Dentistry
Yes—biological dentists do use dental sedation, but with discernment and intention. In holistic practices, sedation is considered a clinical tool, not a default solution. It is reserved for circumstances where the patient’s physical and emotional well-being would be significantly improved by reducing the body’s stress response.
Dental sedation is typically used for patients with severe anxiety, PTSD, or those undergoing complex or invasive procedures. In these cases, managing discomfort and keeping the body out of a fight-or-flight state is critical for safety, cooperation, and successful outcomes.
For most patients, local anesthetics, numbing only the treatment area, are enough. But for those whose stress response interferes with treatment, dental sedation may help shift the body into a parasympathetic healing state: calm, stable, and able to tolerate care without triggering cortisol surges or nervous system overload.
From a biological perspective, chronic stress can suppress immunity, slow tissue regeneration, and interfere with recovery. Conscious dental sedation, when used minimally and intentionally, can support blood flow, reduce inflammation, and prevent trauma-related complications, especially in patients with underlying health conditions, sensory sensitivities, or past medical trauma.
At our practice, we follow a “less is more” approach to dental sedation. We use the shortest-acting, lowest-dose medications needed to reduce stress, while keeping the patient awake, aware, and in control. This supports our commitment to biocompatibility and whole-body health.
While all sedation has risks, its benefits, when carefully managed, are powerful. It can make essential dental care possible for patients who might otherwise avoid treatment, while reducing the risk of long-term dental phobia or procedural trauma.
Types of Sedation in Dentistry
There are several types of dental sedation used in dentistry, each with varying mechanisms of action, durations, and clinical applications. At our biologically focused practice, we take a conservative approach to dental sedation, opting for methods that are effective yet gentle on the body’s detoxification pathways, neurological balance, and immune function.
Below is an overview of common dental sedation methods, including those we offer (and those we do not) along with the reasoning behind those decisions.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is not technically a sedative in the traditional sense but is commonly used to promote relaxation and reduce mild anxiety during dental procedures. As a form of minimal dental sedation, it’s administered through a nosepiece, takes effect within minutes, and wears off quickly, making it ideal for patients who need to return to daily activities soon after treatment.
While nitrous oxide is generally safe, patients with MTHFR gene mutations may be more vulnerable to side effects due to impaired detoxification. Because of this, we use this type of dental sedation with caution and may recommend alternatives for genetically sensitive individuals.
Oral Conscious Sedation (Not Offered at Our Practice)
This form of dental sedation involves the ingestion of a benzodiazepine medication, such as Triazolam or Diazepam, prior to treatment. While oral sedation can reduce anxiety and induce drowsiness, it comes with several drawbacks from a holistic perspective:
- Lack of precise dosage control once the medication is ingested
- No reversal agent readily available in the event of an adverse reaction
- Slower clearance from the body, especially in patients with methylation issues or liver detoxification challenges
For holistic and biological reasons, we prefer safer, more controllable dental sedation techniques.
IV Conscious Sedation (Offered at Our Practice)
IV conscious sedation is one of the most precise and responsive forms of dental sedation. It allows for real-time dosage adjustments and immediate responsiveness in case of patient discomfort or complications.
At our clinic, we use midazolam (Versed) (a short-acting benzodiazepine) for its anxiolytic and amnesic effects, and fentanyl in minimal amounts for additional pain control. Both medications have well-established reversal agents, increasing the safety profile of this method.
We recommend this type of dental sedation for patients undergoing longer or more complex treatments or those with a history of trauma, anxiety, or PTSD. It’s also our go-to for patients needing safe, monitored sedation while maintaining consciousness and natural breathing.
General Anesthesia (Referred to Specialists When Indicated)
General anesthesia involves full unconsciousness and is considered the deepest form of dental sedation. It’s administered only in hospital settings or by licensed dental anesthesiologists. We refer patients for general anesthesia only when it’s clinically necessary—such as for young children, patients with complex medical conditions, or those for whom conscious dental sedation isn’t sufficient.
Although we don’t offer this in-house, we maintain trusted referral relationships to ensure safe, appropriate care when this level of dental sedation is required.
What Does Dr. May Use for Holistic Sedation?
At our practice, dental sedation is approached with the same precision and biological awareness that informs every aspect of care. When sedation is necessary, Dr. May uses IV conscious dental sedation, a method that allows for highly controlled dosing, rapid onset, and immediate reversibility in the event of an adverse reaction, all while keeping the patient awake and breathing independently.
The primary agents we use include:
- Midazolam (Versed): A short-acting benzodiazepine that reduces anxiety, induces a state of calm, and produces anterograde amnesia meaning patients typically have little to no memory of the procedure.
- Fentanyl: Used in minimal microdoses, fentanyl provides localized pain relief and complements the calming effects of midazolam. Its rapid onset and short duration make it ideal for dental procedures requiring stronger analgesia.
We deliberately avoid long-acting or high-dose sedatives. Every dental sedation plan is customized to the patient’s health status, procedure length, and emotional needs. Our goal is not deep sedation, but a calm, parasympathetic healing state, with the patient remaining conscious, responsive, and safe throughout.
Fly in for Surgery
& Transformative Dentistry
Many of our patients fly in from all over the world. We have perfected the “fly-in patient” protocol, making it possible for anyone to receive the world-class treatment at Natural Dentistry. Fly-in alone or with loved ones. Our team will walk you through every step of the way to make sure you have a transformative experience and you return home healthier.
Safety and Monitoring Protocols
At our practice, patient safety is the highest priority during dental sedation. We follow strict, hospital-grade protocols to ensure each patient receives appropriate, personalized care throughout the entire sedation process from pre-procedural screening to post-treatment recovery.
Comprehensive Pre-Sedation Evaluation
Before undergoing dental sedation, each patient completes a thorough medical history review. This includes evaluation of:
- Current medications and supplements
- Allergies and past adverse drug reactions
- Cardiovascular, pulmonary, hepatic, or neurological conditions
- Past experiences with sedation or general anesthesia
- Genetic predispositions that may affect detoxification (e.g., MTHFR mutations)
For patients with complex medical histories, we may require medical clearance from a specialist, such as a cardiologist, pulmonologist, neurologist, or oncologist, before proceeding with dental sedation.
In-Office Monitoring: Hospital-Grade Equipment
All dental sedation procedures are performed with continuous real-time monitoring using advanced, hospital-grade equipment. Vital signs we monitor include:
- Oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
- Respiratory rate
- Heart rate
- Blood pressure
- 6-lead EKG (electrocardiogram)
A trained sedation team is present throughout the procedure, ensuring rapid intervention capability in the rare event of an emergency. Emergency medications and equipment are always on-site and ready for use.
You may also include an image of your EKG or monitoring setup here to build visual trust with patients.
Post-Sedation Recovery and Escort Protocols
After receiving IV dental sedation, patients must be monitored by a responsible adult for the remainder of the day. This is not only a legal requirement in many states (including Connecticut, where 24-hour monitoring is mandated), but a critical step in ensuring safe, smooth recovery.
Patients and escorts will receive:
- Escort instructions outlining signs to watch for post-procedure
- Escort agreements that confirm understanding of post-care responsibilities
- A brief recovery window in-office prior to discharge, during which the patient is stabilized and observed by our team
We encourage patients to rest, hydrate, and avoid operating heavy machinery, making major decisions, or consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours after receiving dental sedation.
If you think we can help you speak with our New Patient Team if you need treatment, a consultation, or information regarding dental sedation.
10 minutes to explain your situation
New Patient Appointment Detailes, Costs For Local & Travel Patients
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Who Can Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?
While not every patient needs sedation, dental sedation can be life-changing for individuals who experience heightened stress, pain sensitivity, or nervous system dysregulation during dental treatment. In a biological dental setting, sedation is used intentionally and conservatively, helping patients receive care without triggering the body’s fight-or-flight response.
Here are the types of patients who may benefit most from holistic dental sedation:
Individuals with Dental Anxiety or Phobia
Patients with a history of dental trauma, fear of needles, or generalized dental anxiety can find dental sedation incredibly helpful. By calming the nervous system, it prevents cortisol and adrenaline spikes—two hormones that increase sensitivity, slow healing, and turn even routine procedures into sources of distress.
Patients with PTSD or a History of Medical Trauma
For those with PTSD or past medical trauma, the dental chair can feel overwhelming or retraumatizing. Sedation dentistry allows these patients to feel safe and grounded, reducing the likelihood of nervous system activation or panic during treatment.
Patients with a Strong Gag Reflex or Low Pain Tolerance
Some people struggle with even basic procedures due to a sensitive gag reflex or low pain threshold. Dental sedation helps relax the body and reduce hyperreactivity, making cleanings, exams, and fillings far more manageable.
Patients Undergoing Long or Complex Procedures
When multiple treatments are done in one visit—such as full-mouth restorations, surgical extractions, or implant placements—IV dental sedation helps patients stay comfortable, relaxed, and still. It also improves provider efficiency and reduces the total number of appointments required.
Patients with Special Healthcare Needs
Patients with autism, developmental delays, neuromuscular conditions, or sensory processing issues often benefit from gentle dental sedation. It helps reduce overstimulation and allows for compassionate, trauma-informed care.
Holistic Sedation: Supporting a State of Healing
In biological dentistry, dental sedation isn’t about “putting patients under.” It’s about creating a safe, calm state where healing is possible. When used appropriately, sedation can transform a stressful procedure into an experience rooted in trust, comfort, and whole-body awareness.
Holistic Sedation and Cost
The cost of sedation dentistry can vary widely depending on the type of sedation used, the length and complexity of the procedure, and the qualifications of the provider administering it. At our practice, we believe in full transparency so patients can plan accordingly and feel confident in the value and safety of the care they’re receiving.
Typical Sedation Costs Nationwide
Sedation fees generally range from $800 to $1,500 per hour, depending on geographic location, the sedation method used, and whether the procedure takes place in a private dental office, surgery center, or hospital. These costs are typically separate from the actual dental procedure and are billed per hour of sedation time.
Sedation Fees at Our Practice
We offer IV conscious dental sedation in two ways, depending on the needs and complexity of the patient:
- IV Sedation performed by Dr. May:
Ranges from $950 to $1,100 per hour
This includes comprehensive monitoring and care delivered in our biologically oriented setting, using carefully selected medications and supplemental support. - IV Sedation performed by a Visiting Dental Anesthesiologist:
Ranges from $1,200 to $1,400 per hour, based on the complexity of the patient and procedures
This option may be recommended for higher-risk individuals or more extensive surgical appointments requiring deeper or longer sedation sessions.
We understand that dental sedation is an investment and our team is committed to making the process as supportive, effective, and safe as possible. Each case is thoroughly reviewed beforehand, and costs are discussed in advance so there are no surprises.
The Science of Dental Anxiety and Pain Management
Dental anxiety is not just emotional, it is physiological. When the brain perceives a dental procedure as a threat, it activates the sympathetic nervous system, triggering the well-known fight-or-flight response. This leads to a surge in cortisol, adrenaline, increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and muscular tension, all of which can disrupt healing, complicate procedures, and heighten pain perception.
Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Response
In a high-stress state, the body enters sympathetic overdrive, which has been shown to:
- Constrict blood vessels (vasoconstriction), limiting oxygen and nutrient delivery
- Inhibit immune activity and tissue repair
- Sensitize nerves, increasing the perception of pain
- Impair digestion and detoxification processes
In contrast, when sedation is used appropriately, it can support a shift into parasympathetic dominance which is the body’s “rest-and-digest” state. This state promotes:
- Vasodilation, allowing increased blood flow to the surgical site
- Reduction in cortisol and adrenaline, calming the inflammatory response
- Enhanced immune function and tissue regeneration
- Lowered perception of pain, allowing for a more comfortable experience
Neurological Modulation Through Sedation
Medications used in dental sedation, such as midazolam (Versed), enhance the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain’s primary calming neurotransmitter. This lowers central nervous system activity, reduces anxiety, and causes mild amnesia, helping patients stay calm without losing consciousness.
Fentanyl, when used in microdoses, targets mu-opioid receptors to blunt pain signals and reduce physical discomfort. When used together, these agents break the stress feedback loop that fuels dental fear, particularly in patients with a history of trauma from past medical or dental experiences.
Why This Matters in Holistic Dentistry
In holistic care, dental sedation is more than symptom relief, it’s a tool for preserving whole-body health. By minimizing stress-induced immune suppression and maintaining nervous system balance, sedation helps protect the body from inflammatory, hormonal, and neurological disruptions.
We don’t use sedation to “numb and rush.” Instead, we use it to create a healing environment, one where the nervous system stays calm, the immune system remains engaged, and the patient can receive care without emotional or physical harm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sedation
What is dental sedation and how does it work?
Dental sedation uses medication to reduce anxiety, pain, and physical stress during dental procedures. At our holistic practice, we primarily use IV conscious sedation, which calms the nervous system while keeping you awake, responsive, and breathing on your own.
Is dental sedation safe for patients with chronic health conditions?
Yes, when administered carefully. We perform a thorough pre-sedation evaluation, including a review of your medications, health history, and detox pathways, to ensure dental sedation is appropriate and safe for your specific needs.
Will I be asleep during IV dental sedation?
No. IV sedation puts you in a deeply relaxed state, but you’ll remain conscious and able to respond. Most patients have little or no memory of the procedure, thanks to mild amnesia caused by medications like midazolam.
What types of dental sedation do you offer?
We offer IV conscious sedation administered by Dr. May or a licensed dental anesthesiologist. We do not offer oral sedation due to its unpredictable effects, nor do we perform general anesthesia in-house (we refer to trusted specialists when needed).
Is dental sedation covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Many insurance plans consider dental sedation elective unless it’s medically necessary. We’ll provide a detailed estimate and help you submit for reimbursement if applicable.
How much does dental sedation cost?
Our IV dental sedation fees range from $950 to $1,400 per hour, depending on who administers it and the complexity of the case. All sedation costs are discussed up front—no surprises.
Can holistic dental sedation support healing?
Absolutely. By calming the sympathetic nervous system and shifting the body into a parasympathetic “rest-and-digest” state, dental sedation can enhance immune function, improve blood flow, and reduce post-procedural inflammation and pain.
Who shouldn’t receive dental sedation?
Patients who are pregnant, have certain unmanaged health conditions, or who lack a post-sedation escort may not be eligible for sedation. We’ll review all contraindications during your evaluation to keep you safe.
About Dr. Yuriy May
Widely sought after for his precision and leadership in biological oral surgery and zirconia implantology, Dr. Yuriy May is recognized as an accomplished leader in metal-free, biologically driven dentistry. With over 12 years of clinical experience, his work is defined by uncompromising standards, refined surgical execution, and outcomes that support both oral and systemic health.
Dr. May holds advanced certifications and training in zirconia implantology from programs ranging from IAOCI and Tufts University, is Board Certified as a Naturopathic Dentist by the ANMCB, and is a distinguished Ceramic Implant Ambassador for SDS—an honor reserved for clinicians shaping the future of ceramic implant science.
A respected educator and international lecturer, Dr. May has presented extraordinary ceramic implant cases to dentists worldwide, including the JCCI in Switzerland, and has served as an instructor in the Ceramic Implant Program at ACIMD. He lectures nationally, publishes complex metal-free surgical cases, and serves as a Board Member of the IAOCI (International Academy of Oral Ceramic Implantology). Dr. May has recently become an Associate Fellow of the AAID (American Academy of Implant Dentistry), one of the few focusing solely on zirconia dental implants, and has been and an Accredited S.M.A.R.T. Certified member of the IAOMT for many years. He is also a Certified Biological Dentist with the IABDM, reflecting his commitment to removing root canal infections and to mercury-safe, evidence-based biological protocols.
Dr. May’s reputation, results, and excellence in ceramic implant dentistry have made him a destination provider for patients and referring clinicians seeking the highest level of ceramic implant surgery and biological dental care.
DMD, IBDM, AIAOMT, CIABDM
Associate Fellow, American Academy of Implant Dentistry
ANMCB Board Certified Naturopathic Dentist