For many people, just the thought of a dental appointment can trigger anxiety—and we get it. At Marion Smile Center, we’ve seen how dental fear can keep patients from getting the care they need. That’s why we’ve created a different kind of dental experience—one where comfort, compassion, and calm are always part of the treatment plan.
Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last visit, our team is here to help you feel relaxed, informed, and in control—starting with the option that helps many of our patients the most: nitrous oxide sedation.
You’re Not Alone: Dental Anxiety Is Extremely Common
Studies show that 36% of Americans experience some level of dental anxiety, and up to 15% struggle so much that they avoid the dentist altogether. Unfortunately, that often leads to preventable problems like cavities, gum disease, infections, and more extensive (and expensive) treatments down the line. But avoiding care doesn’t have to be your only option. Marion Smile Center offers modern, medically-safe comfort dentistry solutions, including nitrous oxide and oral sedation, to help you reclaim your oral health—without the fear.
Why Nitrous Oxide Is a Game-Changer for Dental Anxiety
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is one of the simplest, safest, and most effective ways to reduce anxiety in the dental chair. It’s especially helpful for patients who:
- Feel nervous or panicky before appointments
- Have a sensitive gag reflex or difficulty sitting still
- Fear injections, sounds, or sensations
- Want to feel calm but remain awake and aware
Here’s how it works: You’ll breathe in a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a small mask placed over your nose. Within minutes, you’ll feel lighter, calmer, and more at ease. Best of all, the effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed—so you can even drive yourself home afterward.
At Marion Smile Center, nitrous oxide is available for many types of procedures, from fillings and cleanings to more complex treatments. It’s a great first step for patients who may not be ready for stronger sedation but still want a more comfortable experience.
Your Personalized Comfort Experience
Every patient is different—so we offer a variety of ways to help you feel calm and supported before and during treatment. Our Comfort Menu includes:
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation
- Cozy blankets and supportive pillows
- Noise-canceling headphones and your choice of music
- Squeeze balls to help ease tension
- Lip balm and bottled water
- iPads for entertainment
- Sensitivity polish and other small touches to enhance your visit
The more we know about what makes you uncomfortable, the better we can tailor your experience to feel relaxed and positive.
For Deeper Anxiety: Oral & IV Sedation Options
If you experience more significant anxiety about dental care or are scheduled for a longer, more complex procedure, Dr. Mark Marion offers tailored sedation options to help make your visit as stress-free as possible.
Oral Sedation: Calming Prescriptions You Can Take at Home
Dr. Marion, DMD, Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, and recognized as Top Cosmetic Dentist and Top Dentist by Pittsburgh Magazine for 12 consecutive years, is licensed by the DEA to prescribe controlled substances—an important distinction, as not all dentists have this credential. This allows him to provide safe and effective oral sedation for patients who need extra support to feel at ease.
At your initial consultation, which includes a simple exam and diagnostic x-rays, Dr. Marion will review your treatment needs and discuss sedation options with you. If oral sedation is recommended, he may prescribe two calming medications to help you feel more comfortable:
- Valium (Diazepam) 10 mg
Take one pill before bedtime the night before your appointment. Valium is a time-tested benzodiazepine that reduces anxiety, fear, and tension. It also induces mild sleep and amnesia effects, meaning you’ll feel deeply relaxed and may not recall much about your procedure. Its effects can last 4 to 12 hours, depending on individual response.
Common side effects: drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, confusion, and slurred speech. - Triazolam (Halcion) 0.25 mg
Take one pill one hour before your appointment. Triazolam is a fast-acting medication often used for short-term insomnia. Its rapid onset and short duration (lasting about 2 to 4 hours) make it ideal for dental anxiety, helping you relax and often drift into light sleep during your treatment.
Be aware: it may cause daytime drowsiness, decreased mental alertness, and a higher risk of falls.
Important Safety Note: Do not drive or operate machinery after taking either medication or for 24 hours following your dental appointment. Please arrange for a trusted friend or family member to accompany you to and from your visit.
IV Sedation: For an Even Deeper Level of Relaxation
For patients needing an even deeper level of sedation—whether due to severe dental anxiety or extensive treatment needs—IV sedation is available and administered by a qualified anesthesiologist in our office. IV sedation provides a controlled, adjustable level of relaxation that ensures you remain comfortable and unaware during your procedure.
How to Get Started
If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you need, we can help. Call our office today to schedule an exam and diagnostic x-rays with Dr. Marion. At this appointment, we’ll discuss your dental needs and how we can make your experience as comfortable as possible—with sedation options personalized just for you.
Don’t Let Fear Stand in the Way of a Healthy Smile
Whether you’re nervous about a simple cleaning or need more complex treatment, Marion Smile Center offers gentle, judgment-free care designed with your comfort in mind. Our goal is simple: to make going to the dentist something you feel good about.
Interested in trying nitrous oxide sedation at your next visit? Ask us how this fast-acting, calming option can help you breathe easier at your appointment. Please contact Marion Smile Center in the Zelienople-Harmony area, near Cranberry Township, in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to learn more. Call us at (724) 452-4300 or click here to request an appointment exam with one of our knowledgeable providers today! Your smile—and your peace of mind—are worth it.
