If dental visits feel overwhelming, start with a conversation. We’ll listen, explain your options, and help you understand what to expect before treatment.
Ideal Dentistry · Serving families throughout Tri-Cities
LET’S START WITH WHAT MATTERS TO YOU
Clear answers. Before you sit in the chair.
01 / AWARENESS
Will I be awake?
With nitrous oxide, you remain awake. With oral conscious sedation, you may feel very sleepy or doze, but you remain able to respond to questions or gentle prompting. This is different from being unconscious under general anesthesia.
IV describes how medication is given—not how deeply you are sedated. Your clinician will explain the planned level of sedation and how aware you may be before you decide.
02 / COMFORT
What will I feel?
Depending on the option, you may feel calmer, drowsy, or less aware of time. Some people remember less of their appointment. Experiences vary.
Sedation helps you relax. Local anesthetic may also be used to numb the treatment area. You may still notice pressure or movement; tell the team if you feel discomfort.
03 / GETTING STARTED
What happens first?
We begin by discussing your concerns, health history and dental needs. Your dentist will assess your oral health and explain the treatment and sedation choices.
You’ll have time to ask questions about preparation, cost and recovery.
The right choice depends on your health, the care you need and how you feel about treatment. We’ll discuss benefits, risks and alternatives with you.
01 / BREATHED THROUGH A MASK
Nitrous oxide
Sometimes called laughing gas, this mild sedative is delivered through a small mask over your nose.
What you may notice
A relaxed or light, floating feeling while you remain awake.
After your appointment
Effects usually fade quickly once the gas is stopped. The team will assess your recovery and give you instructions before you leave.
02 / TAKEN AS A PILL
Oral sedation
After reviewing your health history and medications, your dentist decides whether oral conscious sedation is appropriate and provides a prescription and specific instructions. Take the medication only as directed.
What you may notice
You may feel very sleepy or doze while remaining able to respond to questions or gentle prompting. You may remember little or nothing, although experiences vary.
After your appointment
A trusted adult must drive you to and from the office and stay with you as instructed. Our office does not permit Uber or taxi transportation for sedation appointments. Do not drive for at least 24 hours afterward, or longer if instructed.
03 / GIVEN THROUGH A VEIN
IV sedation
IV sedation is offered in our office through contracted providers. Medication is delivered through a small tube in a vein. An evaluation is needed to decide whether this option suits you.
What you may notice
Relaxation and drowsiness can occur. Your experience and awareness depend on the planned sedation level.
After your appointment
A responsible adult must take you home. Follow the team’s instructions for supervision, driving and returning to your routine.
YOUR FIRST VISIT
Know the plan. Ask every question.
Tell us what would make your visit easier. You do not need to choose a sedation option before calling.
Share past dental experiences, your concerns, medical conditions, allergies and current medicines or supplements. Bring your insurance information, if you have it.
02
Understand your dental needs
Your first dental visit includes an examination. X-rays or other images may be recommended. Your dentist explains the findings and available treatment options.
03
Plan treatment together
Discuss whether sedation is appropriate, who will provide it, the expected level, costs and recovery. If you move forward, you’ll receive instructions about food, drinks, medicines and transportation.
MEET YOUR DENTISTS
Get to know the people behind your care.
Dr. Rowe and Dr. Smith take time to explain your oral health and treatment choices. Their dental education and additional training are part of the experience they bring to Ideal Dentistry.
Bradley E. Rowe, DDS
DDS, University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, 1999.
Completed a six-month mini-residency in general dentistry.
Founded Ideal Dentistry in 2009.
Dr. Rowe’s practice interests include restoring natural function and using minimally invasive surgical and restorative techniques.
Jarom A. Smith, DDS
DDS, University of Washington, 2017.
Completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic.
Member of the Academy of General Dentistry.
Joined Ideal Dentistry in 2023 after five years practicing in Tri-Cities.
Dr. Smith grew up in Yakima and has a particular interest in restoring teeth and helping patients maintain their ability to chew.
In addition to their dental licenses, Dr. Rowe and Dr. Smith both hold moderate sedation permits and have completed additional sedation training. They administer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. Contracted providers administer IV sedation in our office. At your consultation, we’ll explain who will provide your sedation, how you’ll be monitored and your recovery plan.
No. Your health history, medications and treatment needs all matter. Tell the team about medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy and anything you take. The clinician will explain whether sedation is appropriate and discuss its risks and alternatives.
Will someone stay with me during treatment?
The team monitors you throughout your sedation appointment. Before treatment, ask how you will be monitored and who will be responsible for your sedation care.
Can I eat or take my usual medicines beforehand?
Follow the specific instructions provided for your appointment. Requirements depend on the sedation plan and your health. Do not change your medicines on your own; call if any instruction is unclear.
How much does sedation cost?
Oral sedation is offered for less than $200. Ask for your estimated out-of-pocket cost and a review of any insurance benefits. Costs for other sedation options and dental treatment vary. Our office also offers payment options, including third-party financing; terms and approval requirements vary.
Can I get help in Spanish?
Yes. Ideal Dentistry has Spanish-speaking team members. Let us know your language preference when you call.
TAKE THE FIRST STEP
Let’s talk about your next visit.
Call Ideal Dentistry to discuss your concerns and arrange a consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and prepare for your appointment.