Sedation dentistry
in Walnut Creek
Anxiety-free dental care with sedation dentistry in Walnut Creek, CA. In-house anesthesia team and gentle options at Tooth + Tongue. Book a comfortable visit.
About sedation dentistry at Tooth + Tongue
Comfortable, anxiety-free dental care with sedation options in Walnut Creek.
For a lot of adults, the hardest part of dental care isn't the treatment — it's getting into the chair. Dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, difficulty getting numb, or a long to-do list of postponed work can all make appointments stressful. Sedation dentistry removes that barrier, letting you get the care you need while feeling calm and comfortable.
This is where Tooth + Tongue is genuinely different. As a specialized dentistry and anesthesia practice, we have anesthesia expertise built into the team — including a dentist-anesthesiologist and a CRNA anesthesia staff. That means sedation here isn't an outside add-on; it's a core part of how we deliver care safely, monitored by professionals who do this every day. For Walnut Creek adults who've been avoiding the dentist, that combination is hard to find locally.
Your options
Sedation isn't one-size-fits-all. We match the level to your needs, your health history, and the procedure.
Nitrous oxide — commonly known as laughing gas — is the lightest option. It helps you relax during treatment and wears off quickly, so you can usually drive yourself home.
Oral sedation uses a prescribed medication taken before your visit to bring you to a deeply relaxed, drowsy state while you stay responsive.
IV sedation and general anesthesia are deeper options managed directly by our anesthesia team, ideal for longer or more complex procedures, surgical treatment, or patients with significant anxiety. Under general anesthesia you're fully asleep and remember nothing of the procedure.
We'll review your medical history and discuss exactly what to expect, including how you'll feel afterward and any arrangements you'll need for the day.
When sedation helps most
Sedation is a strong fit for patients with dental phobia or past traumatic experiences, those with a sensitive gag reflex, anyone facing implant surgery, extractions, or multiple procedures in one sitting, and people who simply want to consolidate a lot of treatment into fewer, calmer visits. Pairing sedation with restorative or surgical care often means more can be done comfortably in a single appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of sedation do you offer?
We offer a full range — from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation to IV sedation and general anesthesia. Because we're a specialized anesthesia practice, deeper sedation is managed in-house by our anesthesia team.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
When provided by trained professionals with proper monitoring, sedation is very safe. Our anesthesia team reviews your health history beforehand and monitors you closely throughout the procedure, which is one of the advantages of having that expertise on staff.
Will I be unconscious?
That depends on the option. Lighter sedation keeps you awake but deeply relaxed, while general anesthesia puts you fully asleep. We'll recommend the right level for your comfort and your procedure.
Can sedation be combined with other treatments?
Yes — sedation is often paired with implant surgery, extractions, crowns, or full-mouth restorative work, allowing more to be completed comfortably in fewer visits.
Is sedation a good option for dental anxiety?
For many anxious patients, it's life-changing. It allows you to receive care you may have been avoiding for years, calmly and without the stress that's been holding you back.
About Our Practice
Tooth + Tongue Adult Dentistry was created on the foundation of a well-established pediatric dental clinic trusted by families in Walnut Creek and nearby communities.Building on that strong reputation for quality care, the practice expanded to offer advanced dental services for adults, including dental implants, bone grafting, surgical extractions, and comprehensive smile restoration using modern technology and precise treatment planning.
Schedule your appointment today
Contact us
Request an appointment
We’re excited to meet you! Fill out the form below, and one of our team members will reach out shortly to confirm your appointment.
