General Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry
Comfortable care, even if you've been putting it off.
25,000+ patients served across our 3 offices
The Anthem approach
Dental anxiety is far more common than most people admit, and it has a real cost: appointments postponed year after year until a small problem becomes an urgent one. Sedation dentistry exists to break that cycle.
We offer IV sedation — delivered through a small line in your arm, so it works quickly and can be adjusted precisely during your appointment. You stay breathing on your own and able to respond, but deeply relaxed, and most patients remember very little of the procedure afterward. Your vital signs are monitored throughout.
Sedation is planned around you rather than the procedure. Some patients want it only for longer surgical appointments; others find it makes routine care possible again after years away from a dentist. Either is a good reason, and neither is something to feel awkward about.
- Makes long-postponed treatment manageable
- Adjustable throughout the appointment
- Longer procedures completed in fewer visits
- Vital signs monitored from start to finish
Good to know
OfficeAvailable at all 3 offices
InsuranceIn-network with the major PPOs. Medi-Cal Dental & IEHP also accepted. Details
FinancingCareCredit & Sunbit — payments that fit your budget
New patients$125 exam & X-rays without insurance
What to expect
Your visit, step by step.
An honest conversation about your anxiety and health history
Medical review to confirm IV sedation is appropriate for you
Clear pre-appointment instructions — including arranging your ride home
Monitored comfort throughout, with follow-up afterward
FAQ
Sedation Dentistry — your questions, answered.
Is IV sedation safe?
For appropriately screened patients, yes. Your medical history, current medications, and any underlying conditions are reviewed before sedation is recommended, and your vital signs are monitored throughout the appointment.
Will I be unconscious?
No. IV sedation is not general anesthesia — you breathe on your own and can respond if we speak to you. But you'll be deeply relaxed, and most patients remember very little of the appointment afterward.
Who is a good candidate for IV sedation?
Patients with significant dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, difficulty getting numb, limited ability to sit for long appointments, or a lot of treatment to complete in one visit.
Will I need someone to drive me home?
Yes. IV sedation takes time to wear off fully, so you'll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours. We'll confirm this well in advance — it's not something to sort out on the morning of your appointment.
Do I need to do anything to prepare?
Yes — there are food and drink restrictions before IV sedation, and we may adjust some of your regular medications. You'll get specific written instructions ahead of the appointment, not a rushed explanation on the day.
Does insurance cover sedation?
Coverage varies by plan and by why sedation is being used — it's more often covered for surgical procedures than for anxiety alone. We'll check your benefits and give you a clear estimate beforehand.
I haven't been to a dentist in years. Is that a problem?
Not at all, and you're in more company than you'd think. Tell us at the first call — we'll plan a first visit that's about getting comfortable and getting the picture, not about doing everything at once.
New to Anthem Dental?
What to expect before you book
If you have not been to one of our offices before, what happens at a first visit walks through the whole appointment step by step — what we look at, what it costs, and what we will never do without telling you first. Walk-ins are welcome at every office, though calling ahead means less waiting.
Sedation Dentistry is performed in-house, so nothing here is referred out to a stranger across town. Meet the team who would be treating you, and read how the practice works if you want the fuller picture. We are in-network with the major PPO plans and also accept Medi-Cal Dental (Denti-Cal) and IEHP — see the full list and what it means for your bill.
Choose whichever office is easiest for you: all 3 are here, each with its own hours, parking and directions.
Related care
Patients also explore
Dental Exams & Cleanings
Comprehensive exams and gentle professional cleanings that catch small issues before they become big ones.
Learn moreEmergency Dentistry
Prompt, compassionate care for toothaches, broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and dental trauma.
Learn moreTooth Extractions
Comfortable, precise extractions — always the last resort, never the first suggestion.
Learn more$125 New Patient Special
Ask us about sedation dentistry — no pressure, ever.
Comprehensive exam and full digital X-rays for new patients without insurance. New patients only. Dental emergencies welcome — we do our best to see you quickly.