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Dental Anxiety or Fear
Sedation may help patients whose fear makes it difficult to begin or complete necessary care.
Dental anxiety is common and should not keep you from needed care. Star Dental offers a calm, explanatory approach and can discuss sedation or other comfort options when appropriate for the patient and procedure.
Sedation is not required for most dental care and is never one-size-fits-all. The dentist reviews health history, medications, anxiety level and the planned procedure before making a recommendation.
Sedation may help patients whose fear makes it difficult to begin or complete necessary care.
Some patients struggle with X-rays, impressions or treatment because of a sensitive gag reflex.
For appropriate patients, sedation may make a longer visit feel more manageable.
Tell the dentist about previous experiences so anesthesia and comfort planning can be individualized.
Many patients choose sedation for surgical extractions, while others are comfortable with local anesthetic alone.
Movement, sensory sensitivities or previous traumatic experiences may affect how a visit is planned.
Local anesthetic numbs the treatment area and is used for many dental procedures whether or not sedation is chosen. Sedation changes awareness, relaxation or memory to a degree that depends on the method. Patients may still respond to instructions and should not assume they will be fully unconscious. The safest option depends on medical history, age, medications, airway assessment and treatment complexity.
We begin with a diagnosis, explain the options and help you understand the next step. Treatment is based on your examination, health history and individual needs.
Discuss anxiety, past experiences, medical conditions, medications and the planned treatment.
The dentist explains local anesthetic, behavioral comfort techniques and available sedation choices.
Follow written food, drink, medication and escort instructions exactly.
Leave with a responsible adult when required and follow post-treatment and emergency instructions.
Preparation differs by sedation method and health history. Only follow the instructions given specifically for your appointment. Call before the visit if anything is unclear or your health or medications change.
Star Dental welcomes new patients, accepts Health First Colorado Medicaid and most PPO plans—including many Delta, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife and Guardian plans—and has Spanish-speaking staff available every day. Benefits and coverage are confirmed for each patient. Same-day appointments may be available; call for availability.
Find us at 1490 S Sheridan Blvd in the King Soopers plaza, with free onsite parking and wheelchair accessibility. New patients should arrive 10–15 minutes early with photo ID and insurance information.
Call for current availability or send an online appointment request. We respond to phone calls and online requests promptly.