If the thought of a dental visit makes your stomach drop, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to keep putting it off. At Black Hills Area Dental, we offer sedation dentistry options designed to help anxious, nervous, and fearful patients get the care they need in comfort. Whether it’s been years since your last appointment or you just dread the chair, our Rapid City team will meet you where you are and help you feel at ease from the moment you walk in.
You’re Not Alone
Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people delay care — and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Maybe it’s the sound of the drill, a fear of needles, a sensitive gag reflex, a past bad experience, or simply not liking the feeling of not being in control. Whatever the reason, our team has heard it before, and we won’t judge you for it.
That’s exactly why we offer sedation dentistry: so patients who avoid the dentist out of fear can finally get comfortable, judgment-free care.
Sedation Options We Offer
We offer sedation options to help ease anxiety and keep you comfortable throughout your visit. The right option for you depends on your level of anxiety, the procedure you’re having, and your health history — which is why every sedation plan starts with a conversation, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Curious what’s available for your situation? Give our office a call at 605-348-4657 and our team will walk you through your options.
Who Sedation Dentistry Is Right For
Sedation dentistry may be a good fit if you experience any of the following:
- High anxiety or fear around dental visits
- A sensitive gag reflex
- Difficulty sitting still for longer procedures
- A past traumatic dental experience
- The need to complete multiple procedures in a single visit
- A general dislike of noises, smells, or sensations associated with dental work
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is a widely used, well-established way to help patients manage anxiety during dental care. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll review your health history beforehand to make sure any sedation option we recommend is appropriate for you. If you have specific health concerns, mention them during your consultation.
Will I be unconscious?
This depends on the type of sedation used — some options simply help you relax while you stay awake and aware, while others may make you drowsy or put you into a deeper sleep-like state. Your dentist will explain exactly what to expect based on the option that’s right for you.
How long will the effects last? Can I drive myself home?
Recovery time depends on the sedation option used. In some cases you can drive yourself home; in others, you’ll need someone to drive you. We’ll let you know exactly what to plan for before your appointment.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
Coverage varies by plan and by procedure. Our team can help you understand your specific coverage — just give us a call at 605-348-4657.
How much does sedation dentistry cost?
Cost depends on the type of sedation used and the procedure being performed. Contact our office for a personalized estimate based on your treatment plan.
Does sedation mean I won't feel any pain?
Sedation is designed to help you feel calm and relaxed. Local anesthesia is typically still used to numb the treatment area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during your procedure. If you’re worried about discomfort, let us know — we’ll work with you to make sure you’re comfortable.
Can children or teens receive sedation?
We’re happy to care for patients of all ages, including children and teens with dental anxiety. Give our office a call at 605-348-4657 and our team can talk through the best options for your family.
What to Expect
Before your visit: We’ll start with a consultation to review your health history, talk through your specific anxiety or concerns, and go over any instructions to follow beforehand (such as fasting or arranging a driver, depending on the sedation option used).
During your visit: Our goal is for you to feel calm and comfortable throughout the entire procedure. Your comfort level will be closely monitored the whole time.
After your visit: Recovery time varies depending on the type of sedation used. Some patients are able to resume normal activity right away, while others may need to arrange a ride home and take it easy for the rest of the day. Our team will send you home with clear aftercare instructions specific to your visit.
For specific questions about what to expect for your situation, contact our office — we’re happy to walk you through it before you ever set foot in the chair.
Sedation Across Our Services
Sedation isn’t just for one type of appointment — it can help make a range of procedures easier, including:
If you’re nervous about an upcoming procedure, ask us about sedation options when you book.
Meet Dr. Samuelson
Dr. Bart Samuelson is a South Dakota native with deep roots in the Black Hills community. Before becoming a dentist, he spent seven years working as a dental hygienist in Rapid City after earning his Dental Hygiene degree from the University of South Dakota in 1993 — hands-on experience that shaped how he cares for anxious and first-time patients today. He went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 2006, graduating with high academic standing and multiple honors.
That background — years spent directly in the chair with patients before ever picking up a drill — is a big part of why Dr. Samuelson and our team take the time to listen and go at your pace, especially if dental visits make you nervous. When he’s not treating patients, you’ll likely find him outdoors around the Black Hills with his wife, Nicole, and their four kids.