Sedation Dentistry in Sandy, Utah
Why People Love Comprehensive Sedation Dental
Understanding How Sedation Can Help You
Laughing Gas - "Just Take the Edge Off"
Available in every treatment room, this gentle option helps you feel relaxed while staying fully aware and in control. "My patients tell me that the gas helps to put them at ease," explains Dr. Rickers. Perfect if you just need something to calm your nerves during routine cleanings or minor procedures.
Oral Conscious Sedation - "I Want to Be Really Relaxed"
Take a prescribed medication before your appointment to achieve deeper relaxation. You'll be conscious but very calm, and many patients don't remember much about the procedure afterward. "Oral sedation tends to work the same [as laughing gas], albeit on a slightly deeper level," explains Dr. Rickers. Ideal for moderate anxiety or longer treatments.
IV Sedation - "I Don't Want to Remember Any of It"
Our most comprehensive option delivers medication through an IV for maximum comfort. "With IV sedation, the patient is under and has no memory of the procedure afterwards, and sometimes that is what is needed," says Dr. Rickers. You'll be in a sleep-like state while complex procedures are completed efficiently and comfortably.
Who Benefits Most from Sedation Dentistry?
You Have Dental Anxiety or Phobia
If the thought of dental work makes you feel panicked, nauseous, or want to cancel appointments, sedation can help you get the care you need without the emotional stress.
You Need Extensive Treatment
Why suffer through multiple anxiety-filled appointments when you could complete several procedures in one comfortable visit? Sedation allows Dr. Rickers to work efficiently while you rest peacefully.
You Have a Strong Gag Reflex
If routine dental work triggers your gag reflex, sedation helps relax those natural responses, making treatment more comfortable for everyone.
Past Dental Trauma
If previous negative experiences make you avoid dental care, sedation provides a gentle way to rebuild your trust in dental treatment while getting the care you need.
You Just Don't Want to Deal with It
Some patients simply prefer not to experience dental procedures. "Other times I see patients who simply don't want to remember their treatment; it's my job to provide the best possible experience within the scope of what they're able to do."
What to Expect with Dr. Rickers
Your Comfort Consultation
Dr. Rickers takes time to understand your specific concerns and anxiety triggers. Together, you'll choose the sedation level that feels right for you—no pressure, no judgment, just solutions that work for your comfort level.
Personalized Care Plan
Based on your treatment needs and anxiety level, he'll recommend the most appropriate sedation option and explain exactly what to expect. You'll receive detailed preparation instructions so there are no surprises.
Monitored Safety Throughout
With his Level 3 sedation certification and state-of-the-art monitoring equipment, your safety is the top priority throughout every procedure. Our team continuously monitors your vital signs while you rest comfortably.
Gradual Confidence Building
"Another benefit of sedation that I've observed is that my patients tend to need less and less of it as time passes," notes Dr. Rickers. "Part of this I attribute to the fact that their senses are dulled during treatment, which makes the experience less jarring, but also, the more they visit, the more their anxiety tends to wane."
Meet Dr. Spencer Rickers, DMD
Sedation Expertise
Tech-forward, Patient-first
Why Dr. Rickers Is Different
Highest Level of Sedation Training
- Level 3 sedation certification (the highest available)
- Full spectrum of sedation options from mild to deep sedation
- Extensive experience with hundreds of anxious patients
Comprehensive Understanding of Anxiety
- Background in exercise physiology reveals how anxiety affects your entire body
- Recognizes physical symptoms: elevated heart rate, tense muscles, shallow breathing
- Tailors sedation to your emotional and physical stress responses
Progressive Confidence Building Philosophy
- Views sedation as a tool for gradually building patient confidence
- Many patients progress: IV sedation → oral sedation → laughing gas → no sedation needed
- "A lot of my patients first come to me with terrible dental anxiety, but over time, they can slowly overcome that fear."
Addresses Root Causes of Anxiety
- Poor past dental experiences
- Fear of pain or loss of control
- Dental trauma triggers
- Individual comfort needs and triggers
Individualized Patient Care
- Recognizes subtle signs of patient discomfort
- Adjusts approach based on each patient's needs:
- Some need more time to feel secure
- Others need detailed explanations of every step
- Many need to know they can stop the procedure anytime
- Creates personalized sedation plans for lasting comfort
Why Hundreds of Happy Patients Choose Us
Full-Service Dentistry
Complete care from checkups to implants and smile makeovers, planned for lifelong health.
No Judgment Ever
Come as you are—compassion, comfort options, and a clear path forward.
Non-Surgical Gum Care
Cutting-edge, non-surgical system to eliminate gum disease and restore oral health.
Transparent Pricing
Clear estimates, flexible financing, and helpful insurance support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for sedation?
Preparation varies by sedation type. For laughing gas, no special preparation is needed. Oral and IV sedation require fasting for several hours before treatment. We'll provide detailed instructions, including medication guidelines and transportation requirements, well in advance of your appointment.
What type of sedation is right for me?
During your consultation, Dr. Rickers will review your medical history, anxiety level, and treatment needs to recommend the most appropriate sedation option. We consider factors like procedure length, complexity, and your comfort preferences to create a personalized sedation plan.
Will I feel any pain?
No, you'll remain completely comfortable throughout your procedure. Sedation is combined with local anesthetic to ensure you don't experience pain. Many patients report having little to no memory of their treatment and are amazed at how much work can be completed while they rest comfortably.
How long does sedation last?
The duration varies by type. Laughing gas effects disappear within minutes of removing the mask. Oral sedation can last 2-6 hours, while IV sedation effects may last several hours. We'll provide specific timing information based on your selected sedation method and ensure you have safe transportation home when needed.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is extremely safe when administered by a qualified professional like Dr. Rickers. We use advanced monitoring equipment to track your vital signs throughout your procedure. Our team is thoroughly trained in sedation protocols and emergency response. Each patient receives a customized sedation plan based on their medical history, anxiety level, and treatment needs.
PPO Plans Accepted
In-House Membership Plan
Our exclusive membership plan offers comprehensive coverage at affordable rates:
- 365/Year $1/Day
- 10% off Treatment Up to 20% off preventative and gum therapy.
- Two Full Cleanings, one Emergency exam. All additional imaging included for procedures and exams.
- No waiting periods or annual maximums
