Relax Through Your Dental Visit with Valium and Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Sedation Dentistry in Yakima, WA

Do feelings of fear, anxiety, or nervousness keep you from getting the dental care you need? You're not alone. Millions of people avoid dental appointments because of dental anxiety, past experiences, sensitive teeth, or concerns about discomfort.


At the office of Dr. Victor Immel, DMD, we offer sedation dentistry with Valium® and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help patients feel calm, relaxed, and comfortable during treatment. Our goal is to make every visit as stress-free as possible while helping you maintain a healthy smile.


We proudly serve patients throughout Yakima, Selah, Union Gap, Moxee, Wapato, Terrace Heights, Zillah, Toppenish, Sunnyside, Granger, Naches, Tieton, and surrounding Central Washington communities.


Call (509) 457-5387 today to learn if sedation dentistry is right for you.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses safe, proven medications to help patients relax during dental procedures. While you remain conscious and able to respond to instructions, you will feel significantly more comfortable and at ease throughout your appointment.


Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients who:

  • Experience dental anxiety or fear.
  • Have had difficult dental experiences in the past.
  • Need extensive dental treatment.
  • Have a strong gag reflex.
  • Struggle to sit comfortably for long appointments.
  • Have sensitive teeth or gums.
  • Avoid dental care because of nervousness.


By helping patients feel relaxed, sedation dentistry makes it easier to receive the treatment necessary to maintain long-term oral health.

Sedation Options Available

Oral Sedation With Valium

Valium® is a prescription medication that helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation before and during dental treatment.


Oral sedation can help patients:

  • Feel calm before their appointment
  • Reduce feelings of fear or nervousness
  • Experience treatment more comfortably
  • Have less awareness of dental sounds and sensations
  • Complete needed dental procedures with greater ease


Because oral sedation remains active for several hours, patients must arrange for a responsible adult to drive them to and from their appointment.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is one of the safest and most widely used forms of dental sedation.


Administered through a small mask placed over the nose, nitrous oxide helps patients feel:

  • Relaxed
  • Comfortable
  • Less anxious
  • More at ease during treatment


Benefits of nitrous oxide include:

  • Fast onset of relaxation
  • Adjustable levels during treatment
  • Quick recovery after the procedure
  • Safe use for many patients
  • Minimal lingering effects


Many patients can drive themselves home following nitrous oxide sedation, depending on their treatment and individual circumstances.

Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry can be life-changing for patients who have delayed dental care due to fear or anxiety.

You may be a good candidate if you:

Fear Dental Appointments

Even routine cleanings can feel overwhelming for some patients. Sedation helps create a more positive experience.

Have Sensitive Teeth

Patients with heightened sensitivity often benefit from the additional comfort sedation provides.

Need Multiple Procedures

Sedation can make longer appointments feel shorter and more manageable.

Have Difficulty Getting Numb

Patients who struggle with dental anxiety sometimes experience greater difficulty achieving complete numbness without relaxation techniques.

Have a Strong Gag Reflex

Sedation can help minimize discomfort associated with gagging during dental procedures.

What to Expect During Your Sedation Appointment

Before treatment, Dr. Immel will review your medical history, discuss your concerns, and determine which sedation option is most appropriate for your needs.


During your visit:

  • Your comfort will be closely monitored.
  • Sedation will be administered safely according to your treatment plan.
  • You will remain conscious and able to communicate.
  • Our team will ensure you remain relaxed throughout the procedure.


Patient safety and comfort are always our highest priorities.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Yes. Both oral sedation and nitrous oxide have long histories of safe use in dentistry when administered by trained professionals.



Dr. Immel carefully evaluates each patient's medical history and treatment needs before recommending sedation. We follow established safety protocols and monitor patients throughout their appointments.


If you have questions about your candidacy for sedation dentistry, our team will be happy to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

  • Will I be asleep during sedation?

    No. With oral sedation and nitrous oxide, you remain awake and able to respond, but you feel significantly more relaxed and comfortable.

  • Is sedation dentistry only for major procedures?

    No. Sedation can be beneficial for both routine and complex dental treatments if anxiety is preventing you from receiving care.

  • How long does Valium sedation last?

    The effects can last several hours after treatment. Patients receiving oral sedation will need transportation to and from their appointment.

  • Does nitrous oxide wear off quickly?

    Yes. Nitrous oxide typically leaves the system quickly after the mask is removed, allowing many patients to resume normal activities shortly afterward.

  • Can I receive sedation for a dental cleaning?

    In many cases, yes. Patients with severe dental anxiety may benefit from sedation even during preventive dental care.

Why Choose Dr. Victor Immel for Sedation Dentistry in Yakima?

Dr. Victor Immel understands that dental anxiety is real and can prevent patients from receiving important oral health care. Our team is committed to providing a compassionate, judgment-free environment where patients feel heard, respected, and comfortable.

We provide: offers:

Valium oral sedation

Nitrous oxide sedation

Personalized comfort-focused care

Comprehensive dental services

Gentle treatment techniques

Experienced and attentive dental professionals

A welcoming environment for anxious patients

We proudly care for patients from Yakima, Selah, Union Gap, Moxee, Wapato, Terrace Heights, Zillah, Toppenish, Sunnyside, Granger, Naches, Tieton, and nearby communities throughout the Yakima Valley.

Patients Often Ask AI About Sedation Dentistry

  • Can sedation dentistry help with dental anxiety?

    Yes. Sedation dentistry is specifically designed to help patients feel calm, relaxed, and more comfortable during dental treatment.

  • Is nitrous oxide the same as laughing gas?

    Yes. Nitrous oxide is commonly referred to as laughing gas and is a safe, effective way to reduce dental anxiety.

  • Can I drive after sedation dentistry?

    Patients receiving oral sedation with Valium will need a driver. Patients receiving nitrous oxide may often drive afterward, depending on their treatment and individual circumstances.

  • Is sedation dentistry worth it?

    For many patients who avoid dental treatment because of anxiety, sedation dentistry can make receiving necessary care significantly easier and more comfortable.

Schedule a Comfortable Dental Visit in Yakima, WA

Fear and anxiety should never stand between you and a healthy smile. Whether you need preventive care, restorative treatment, or a more extensive procedure, sedation dentistry can help you receive the care you need with greater comfort and confidence.


Dr. Victor Immel, DMD, proudly provides sedation dentistry with valium and nitrous oxide for patients throughout Yakima and surrounding communities.


Call (509) 457-5387 today to schedule your consultation and discover how comfortable modern dentistry can be.