New Patient Special
We've heard it before, and we're ready to help
A lot of people put off dental care for years because of anxiety, a bad experience, or just the way the dentist's chair makes them feel. We don't take that lightly. At Sunrise Smiles, sedation isn't an afterthought. It's something we actively offer and encourage because a good experience matters more to us than rushing through an appointment.
Whatever your comfort level, we'll find an option that works for you.
You're in control
Sedation doesn't mean you hand over control. It means we work together to find the level of support that helps you feel calm, safe, and ready. We go over every option with you before anything starts, answer your questions honestly, and won't move forward until you feel good about the plan.
More done, less stress
For patients with anxiety or complex treatment needs, sedation allows us to complete more in a single visit. That means fewer appointments, less time in the chair overall, and faster progress toward a healthier smile.
No judgment, no pressure
Whether you haven't been to the dentist in two years or twenty, we're not here to make you feel bad about it. Anxiety and avoidance are more common than most people realize, and getting here is the hard part. We'll meet you where you are and focus on making this the kind of experience that makes it easier to come back next time.
Check your insurance
You might benefit from sedation if you
- Have anxiety or fear around dental visits
- Have put off care for a long time because of past experiences
- Have a strong gag reflex or highly sensitive teeth
- Need multiple procedures completed in one visit
- Have difficulty sitting still for extended periods
- Are undergoing a more involved procedure like an extraction or root canal
You don't need a specific reason. If sedation would help you feel more comfortable, that's enough.
Your sedation options
Laughing gas
Laughing gas is a gentle, fast-acting option that works well for mild to moderate anxiety. You breathe it in through a small nose piece during your appointment. It creates a calm, relaxed feeling without putting you to sleep, and it wears off within minutes after the nose piece is removed. Most patients drive themselves home.
Just so you know: We provide laughing gas at no charge if you have your own nose piece, because we'd rather you feel comfortable than skip care over the cost.
Oral sedation
Oral sedation is a prescription medication taken before your appointment. It reduces anxiety significantly and makes the visit feel much shorter than it actually is. You'll be awake and able to respond, but deeply relaxed throughout. You'll need a driver to bring you home.
Just so you know: We provide oral sedation at no charge. A good experience is worth more to us than the cost of the medication.
IV sedation
IV sedation is administered directly into the bloodstream by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist for immediate, controlled relaxation. Most patients remember little to nothing about the procedure afterward. This is a strong option for patients with significant anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or longer procedures. A driver is required.
Hospital-based general anesthesia
In partnership with Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, we offer dental treatment under full general anesthesia for patients who need it. This is typically used for younger patients, patients with certain disabilities, or cases that require a hospital environment for safety.
A CRNA administers and monitors anesthesia throughout. A driver is required for the trip home.
Dentistry that feels like family
Spanish-speaking care available
Comfort for anxious patients
What to expect when you choose dental sedation
Let us know
When you book, mention that you're interested in sedation. We'll flag it so we're prepared before you arrive.
Conversation before treatment
We'll go over your health history, current medications, and how you're feeling to choose the safest and most appropriate option for your visit.
Sedation is administered
We take our time here. Sedation is given before treatment begins, and we wait until you're genuinely comfortable before moving forward.
Your procedure
Our team monitors you throughout. You're in good hands from start to finish.
Recovery and next steps
Laughing gas clears fast. Oral and IV sedation require rest afterward and a ride home. We'll send you home with clear instructions and check in to make sure your recovery goes smoothly.
Dentistry that works for your life
Convenient hours, real flexibility
Same-day solutions
A team that gets to know you
Affordable, honest care
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started?
Book online or give us a call. Let us know sedation is on your mind and we'll make sure everything is ready for you.
How do I know which option is right for me?
We'll help you figure that out together. Come in or call and tell us how you're feeling. We'll ask a few questions, go over your options honestly, and make a recommendation based on your situation.
Can I eat before my appointment?
For laughing gas, eating normally is fine. For oral sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, you'll receive specific fasting instructions when you book. Follow them carefully for your safety.
What if I'm only a little nervous?
Laughing gas is a great starting point. It's mild, adjustable, and wears off quickly. A lot of patients who thought they only needed a small amount of support find that it makes a significant difference.
Can my child receive sedation?
Yes. We offer sedation options for pediatric patients including hospital-based general anesthesia when needed. We'll talk through what's appropriate based on your child's age, health, and what treatment is required.
Does sedation cost extra?
Laughing gas is free if you have your own nose piece, and Valium is always provided at no charge. IV sedation and hospital-based general anesthesia have associated costs that vary by case. We'll be upfront about pricing before your appointment.
Is sedation safe?
Yes. We review your medical history and medications before recommending any option to make sure it's appropriate for you. IV sedation and general anesthesia are administered by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
Do I need a driver?
For oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia, yes. Laughing gas clears quickly enough that most patients can drive themselves home afterward.
Will I be unconscious?
Only with general anesthesia. Laughing gas and oral sedation keep you awake but relaxed. IV sedation produces a deeply calm state where most patients have little memory of the appointment. We'll explain exactly what to expect from each option.
Is it okay to ask for sedation for something routine like a cleaning?
Absolutely. We never require a specific procedure before offering sedation. If anxiety has been keeping you from even basic care, sedation is available for any appointment.
Located in Ammon, ID
Sunrise Smiles Dentistry is located at 2641 S 25th East in AmSunrise Smiles Dentistry is located at 2641 S 25th East in Ammon, ID, next to Cafe Sabor in the Edwards Theatre Plaza. We proudly serve Ammon, Idaho Falls, Shelley, Rigby, and Rexburg.mon, ID.
