Our Sedation Services

If the thought of visiting the dentist fills you with unease or anxiety, you’re not alone – a majority of Americans today report experiencing some level of dental phobia when faced with an upcoming appointment. Here in Big Bear City, Dr. Bickler and his team work hard to help patients feel at ease through our friendly personalities and warm, inviting office environment, but we also understand that sometimes, a little extra help is needed. That’s where sedation dentistry comes in. These techniques are designed to offer patients an extra level of comfort and contentment, allowing them to truly relax as we take care of their oral health.  

We are happy to say our patients that are anxious on their first visit find Dr. Bickler's soothing temperament and gentle hands to have a calming effect, often resulting in no sedation necessary.

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Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is a great sedation choice for patients who only struggle with mild dental phobia. Administered through a mask that covers the nose, nitrous oxide induces warm, pleasant feelings, helping you to relax and feel content as our team takes care of your teeth. Best of all, the effects wear off minutes after the mask is removed, meaning that busy patients can immediately return to work, run errands, and even drive themselves from the office with no downtime required.

Oral Sedation

If your feelings of anxiety or fear are more severe, oral sedation may be the ideal option. Our office will provide you with a prescription that you’ll take at a predetermined amount of time before your appointment, and we’ll ensure that you’re fully comfortable and relaxed before beginning any treatment. While patients who undergo oral sedation aren’t technically unconscious, they enter into such a deep state of relaxation that they tend to remember very few details about the procedure they underwent. You will need a trusted friend or family member to escort you to and from your appointment.

Please contact our office today if you’d like to learn more about sedation dentistry, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment with our team. Here in Big Bear City, we want to give you and your family an enjoyable experience every time you walk through our front door. Dr. Joel Bickler is committed to providing comprehensive dental care to patients from all over the Big Bear lake area and beyond that meets all their needs and creates healthy, beautiful smiles.