If you are seeking a relaxing experience at the dentist instead of a stressful one, Radiance Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers sedation dentistry. Your visits to the dentist can be relaxing and pain-free with nitrous oxide sedation.
Dr. Rebecca Rath and her team are dedicated to providing a stress-free experience, especially for those with dental anxiety. If you have been delaying treatment or a regular visit, you can schedule your visit today, knowing we will make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Do I Need Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry can help patients who struggle with a variety of things. If you struggle with any of these things, dental sedation can help your dental visit be easier:
- A phobia of the dentist
- Poor past dental experiences
- Putting off dental care because of nervousness
- General anxiety or hyperactivity
- Special needs or overstimulation
- A sensitive gag reflex
- A low pain tolerance or sensitive teeth
Dental sedation can help with these issues and more. Even if you have been putting off dental work, we invite you to visit us to learn more about how we can help. Sedation dentistry can help you receive simple care or complex care that you have been putting off. Our office is a judgment-free zone, and we want the best health for you and your family.
What Does Sedation Dentistry Entail?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is particularly beneficial for those with dental anxiety, a low pain threshold, or difficulty sitting still for long periods. At Radiance Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort and safety, providing sedation options that cater to your individual needs.
The sedation dentistry option that we utilize is nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas). Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative that helps you relax while remaining conscious and responsive. This type of sedation is safe for adolescents and children as well as adults.
Your Dental Visit Using Sedation Dentistry
You can either decide to use our nitrous oxide during our consultation with you, or you can decide on the day of the appointment. Whenever you decide, we will go over the benefits and small risks of sedation dentistry.
During your appointment, you will wear a mask over your nose that administers nitrous oxide while you undergo your dental procedure.
Nitrous oxide will help you feel relaxed or even a bit sleepy, but you will still be able to talk to your dentist and hygienists. It wears off almost immediately after stopping its use. You’ll be able to drive home from your appointment, and there will not be any long-term side effects.
What Sedation Dentistry Has to Offer
Sedation dentistry offers several benefits that can significantly enhance your dental experience and ensure a more comfortable and stress-free visit.
Reduced Anxiety
One of the primary benefits of sedation dentistry is its ability to help patients feel more relaxed and less anxious during treatment. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with dental phobias or those who have had traumatic dental experiences in the past.
Pain Management
Sedation dentistry also plays a crucial role in pain management. It minimizes discomfort and pain during procedures, making it easier for patients to tolerate even more complex or lengthy treatments. This is especially advantageous for patients with a low pain threshold or those requiring extensive dental work.
Improved Collaboration
Another significant benefit of sedation dentistry is improved cooperation. When patients are relaxed and comfortable, it is easier for them to remain still and follow instructions, enabling the dentist to perform treatments more efficiently and effectively. This can lead to better outcomes and a smoother overall dental experience.
Combined Dental Visits
Dental sedation can be used to make longer treatments more comfortable or even possible. If you need several dental treatments or an extensive dental treatment (such as a root canal), dental sedation can help you get that care in a more comfortable way. We can combine dental treatments into one visit thanks to the help of sedation dentistry.
For example, you can come in for one longer visit to have both veneers and a dental bridge placed, and use sedation dentistry during your treatment, allowing you to spend less time in the dental office and more time enjoying your new smile.
Better Oral Health
Sedation dentistry allows you to receive the dental care you need without fear or discomfort. For many patients, anxiety can be a major barrier to maintaining regular visits or completing necessary treatments. Sedation helps calm those fears, creating a relaxing and peaceful environment where you can feel at ease. By reducing stress and anxiety, sedation dentistry makes it easier to prioritize your oral health—helping you achieve lasting wellness and confidence in your smile.
At Radiance Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we are committed to making your visit as pleasant as possible by offering sedation options that help you feel at ease. Dr. Rath and her team ensure that sedation is administered safely and effectively, providing you with the comfort and peace of mind necessary for a positive dental experience.

A Caring Team Behind Your Dental Care
We know our team and office have a lot to do with how relaxed you feel, just as much as the sedation dentistry can. Our office is a welcoming environment that will help you feel relaxed from the moment you walk in. Our all-female team understands how to help with your dental anxiety with care and compassion. Even if you haven’t seen the dentist in a while, we are happy to help you start improving your whole-body health.
Dental Sedation FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by a trained professional. Dr. Rath ensures your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. If you need more or less nitrous oxide, the levels can easily be adjusted and monitored.
What treatments can I use sedation dentistry for?
Dental sedation can be used for most treatments, even simple cleanings, especially if sedation will help you receive care you would otherwise avoid. We can discuss if you are a candidate for dental sedation and if it will work for your specific treatment.
What other kinds of dental sedation are there?
While we offer nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, some dentists also offer oral sedation or IV sedation. Oral sedation is a pill taken before the appointment, and makes you drowsy and relaxed during the appointment. IV sedation induces a twilight sleep and must be done under a CRNA or an anesthesiologist.

Ask about Our Sedation Dentistry
If you experience dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help. Call Radiance Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Billings, MT, today to learn more about our sedation dentistry options. Our experienced team is here to provide a comfortable and stress-free dental experience.
About Dr. Rebecca Rath
Dr. Rebecca Rath was born and raised in Billings. She earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine degree from Oregon Health and Science University, and after graduating she practiced in community health centers and private practices in Oregon and Montana. Learning has always been an important aspect of her practice, and she has continued that learning at the prestigious Kois Center, a renowned institute for advanced dental education focused on comprehensive patient care. She works with her all-female team to bring you compassionate dentistry in Billings, Montana.


