Sedation Dentistry
We utilize sedation dentistry for various in-house services. Our aim is to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed during any dental treatment.
Sedation Dentistry
in Grand Junction, CO
Dental sedation helps to alleviate the pain and anxiety associated with dental procedures, making the experience more comfortable. It also allows our team to work more efficiently. We offer nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, and minimal sedation, which is also known as oral conscious sedation.
For minimal sedation appointments, a consultation is required to confirm medical history and discuss policies and procedures. We are happy to answer any questions you may have at this time. A driver is required to take patients to and from minimal sedation appointments, so it is beneficial for them to come to the consultation as well.
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Full IV Sedation Available Through Pathways Anesthesia
We’re excited to partner with Joseph McBeain, CRNA, MSN, NSPM-C, and Pathways Anesthesia to offer full IV sedation to eligible patients seeking a more relaxed dental experience. IV sedation uses medication delivered through a small IV in your arm or hand to help you feel deeply calm and comfortable throughout your visit. Throughout the process, your breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and comfort are monitored, and medication is adjusted as needed. Like with oral sedation, a driver is required to take patients who receive IV sedation to and from their appointments.
If you are interested in IV sedation, please let our team know. You can also learn more about Pathways Anesthesia and access their patient forms below.
Joseph McBeain, CRNA, MSN, NSPM-C
Joe McBeain, CRNA, MSN, NSPM-C, is a retired U.S. Navy nurse anesthesiologist who returned home to Colorado following his military retirement to continue providing high-quality anesthesia care to patients across the Western Slope. He earned his undergraduate degree from San Diego State University, graduating magna cum laude. He completed his anesthesia training at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, followed by a fellowship in Advanced Pain Management at Texas Christian University.
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Bookcliff Family Dental's
Sedation Dentists
Dr. Ryan Helgerson
DMD
Dr. Ryan Helgerson takes pride in delivering superior care to the people of Grand Junction and the surrounding areas. When it comes to minimal sedation, he has completed continuing education courses and stays up to date on the latest and best services available.
Dr. Heidi West
DMD
With a passion for the blend of art and science in dentistry, Dr. West is dedicated to restoring smiles while ensuring her patients feel comfortable and fully informed about their treatment and sedation options.
Dental Sedation Options
at Bookcliff Family Dental
Nitrous (laughing gas) is a safe and effective sedation technique that is quickly administered through a patient’s nose. After inhaling the gas, you will feel a sense of relaxation and reduced sensation. The effects of the sedation will end approximately five minutes after the procedure is complete. This makes nitrous oxide an ideal choice for those who need to drive to and from their appointment without any worries.
Minimal Sedation, or Oral Sedation, is a type of sedation that provides a more relaxed, “fuzzy“ experience during your appointment. You will take medication anywhere from 12 hours to 1 hour before the appointment. By the time of the appointment, you will be awake, but very sleepy and will have no sensation of pain. This method of sedation is slightly more potent and is usually only available to generally healthy people who have a driver to take them to and from the appointment.
IV Sedation is a safe, closely monitored option that helps you feel calm and comfortable during dental treatment. Medication is delivered through a small IV in your arm or hand, working quickly to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation. Most patients feel drowsy and may remember little of the procedure, with no adverse reactions afterwards. You’ll be monitored throughout for peace of mind. Our team partners with Pathways Anesthesia to offer IV sedation.
How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?
We are committed to providing excellent, affordable dental care to our patients in Grand Junction, CO. We understand that cost can be a concern when considering dental sedation, and so we offer personalized out-of-pocket estimates for your specific procedure. These estimates take into account the type of sedation and your insurance coverage at the time of the procedure. Contact us today to discuss your individual treatment options.
- Nitrous Sedation (laughing gas): $90
- Minimal Sedation: $335
- IV Sedation: $700 for the first hour and $150 for every 15 minutes after

Sedation Dentistry FAQ
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Can I work the same day after receiving oral sedation or IV sedation?
No, you will need to take the day off. Minimal sedation medications and IV sedation can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to think and react.
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Can treatment be completed in one appointment?
Each patient has a unique situation that causes treatment times to vary. However, minimal sedation allows us to complete more work at a time.
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What restrictions do I have after receiving minimal sedation or IV sedation?
If you receive sedation, there are certain restrictions you should be aware of. The most important restriction is that you should not drive the day you receive sedation. Additionally, you should not go up or down stairs or make any important decisions.
Ready to Experience Comfortable Dental Care?
If you have any questions about the types of dental sedation offered by Bookcliff Family Dental and the specific procedures involved, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. We are more than happy to provide detailed information and discuss any concerns you may have.
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