Sedation Dentistry in Silver City
A Licensed, Gentle Dentist Silver City Patients Trust
Dental anxiety keeps more people out of the chair than most would admit. At Sherman Dental, patients who have put off care because of fear, discomfort, or a difficult past experience have a real option. Dr. John Sherman holds a Nitrous Oxide Administration license and is recognized throughout Silver City, NM for his ability to calm even very anxious patients before and during treatment.
Sedation dentistry doesn’t mean unconscious or sedated beyond awareness. It means you stay relaxed, comfortable, and in control while we handle the work.
If anxiety has been standing between you and the dental care you need, call us at (575) 888-8955. Our team can answer your questions and help you schedule at a pace that works for you.
A Practice Built Around Patient Comfort
Comfort at Sherman Dental isn’t a feature you request. It’s the baseline. Dr. Sherman takes time to listen before any treatment begins, and every care plan comes with upfront pricing and realistic time estimates so there are no surprises.
Our staff speak both English and Spanish, which matters when a patient needs to clearly communicate what they’re feeling or ask questions about a procedure. That kind of communication is central to how we make sedation care work for every patient we see.
Who Benefits from Sedation Dentistry
Nitrous oxide sedation is appropriate for a wider range of patients than most people expect. You don’t need a diagnosed phobia to benefit from it.
Patients who tend to do well with sedation include:
- Those with significant dental anxiety or a longstanding fear of the dentist
- Patients with a strong gag reflex that makes treatment uncomfortable or difficult
- Anyone undergoing a lengthy or complex procedure who wants to minimize discomfort
- Patients who’ve had a painful or traumatic dental experience in the past
- Those with sensitive teeth or difficulty achieving full numbness from local anesthetic alone
- Children and adults who struggle to tolerate standard care without additional support
If you’re unsure whether sedation makes sense for your situation, mention it when you call. We can walk through your history and what we’re planning before your appointment.
What to Expect with Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas, is inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose and takes effect within minutes. You’ll feel relaxed and at ease while remaining fully conscious and able to communicate with Dr. Sherman throughout the procedure.
One practical advantage: the effects clear quickly once the mask is removed. Most patients can drive themselves home afterward, so a sedation visit in Silver City doesn’t require arranging a ride or clearing your schedule. Dr. Sherman adjusts the level throughout your appointment based on how you’re feeling. The goal is your comfort, not a fixed protocol.
Dr. Sherman’s Training & Credentials
Dr. John Sherman graduated from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Dentistry in the top 10% of his class and served as class president all four years. He earned a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), a credential requiring 500 hours of continuing education and passage of a comprehensive written exam, along with an Associate Fellowship in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). His Nitrous Oxide Administration license reflects a broader commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care.
That commitment extends beyond the office. Dr. Sherman is a licensed Angel Flights pilot who flies medically needy patients to treatment centers at no cost, participates in the New Mexico Mission of Mercy, and volunteers with the national Give Kids a Smile program. He is a member of both the American Dental Association and the New Mexico Dental Association.
Schedule Your Visit at Sherman Dental
If you’ve been avoiding the dentist because of anxiety, a past experience, or simply not knowing what to expect, we want to hear from you. Sherman Dental serves patients throughout Silver City, NM, and our bilingual team is ready to help in English and Spanish. Reach us by phone or through the contact form on our website.
Call (575) 888-8955 to schedule an appointment or ask about sedation options. We can help you understand what to expect before you come in.
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“Dr. Sherman is a solid human. And a Damn good dentist, with an always solid team around him. Is clear about any issues I’ve had and has easily explained and shown me what the issues are. Not pushy at all and has respected my input. He’s a no pain dentist as well. If he didn’t keep telling me to open my mouth wider, I’d easily fall asleep while he’s ... ”
- Douglas H. -
“Simply outstanding service and staff. I had a painful dental emergency over the weekend while passing through the area. Left message on a Saturday and Monday morning I was in the chair and seeing Dr. Sherman. The staff personable, compassionate to my needs and true professionals, they were able to squeeze me into the busy schedule. I even got some solid ... ”
- Stephen G. -
“They got me in very quickly for a crown that I had done at another place yesterday that fell off last night. Everyone was friendly, their covid precautions were both excellent and exactly what they said they would be, which I very much appreciate. He was gentle and calm, professional and explained everything very well. Everyone there was friendly, calm, ... ”
- Brenna T. -
“This Dental office was the 1st to offer assistance to work with the VA on the billing side of the house. All veterans know it’s a pain and a hassle. This is where all veterans in our area need to go as a 1st option. This is aside from the professional service and hospitality ////Retired Military//// ”
- Dennis C. -
“Reviewing my first visit with Dr. Sherman. I got an emergency appt. for a toothache and was examined and told I needed a crown. They gave me another appointment for 9 am the next morning and by 11:30 I was on my way with a new crown and no toothache. I was very pleased with Dr. Sherman and also his staff and I expect to be a regular patient there now. ”
- Robert L. -
“Best dental experience to date! I am new to the area and I broke a tooth. They got me in promptly and I had a permanent crown placed in just one visit! Everyone was very friendly and professional. It was a VERY pleasant experience! ”
- Trista H.
Whether you have questions or you're ready to make an appointment, our team is ready to help.