Sedation Dentistry in Kirkland, WA

Fear shouldn’t stop you from getting the care you need. Experience safe, compassionate sedation dentistry designed for complete comfort.

Dr. Shawn Keller giving a friendly, reassuring smile at Smiles By Design in Kirkland, WA

“I Have Dental Anxiety Too.”

Dr. Shawn Keller built his practice around patients
who are afraid—because he is one of them.

Dr. Keller openly shares that he has extreme dental anxiety.
After chemotherapy destroyed his teeth 15 years ago, he endured:

  • Full mouth crowns
  • Root canals
  • Sinus lifts
  • A lower denture
  • Failed implants
  • Nerve damage
  • Severe TMJ with vertigo and ringing in the ears

He understands:

  • Fear of pain
  • Fear of embarrassment
  • Fear that treatment won’t work again

Even as a dentist, sitting in the chair can feel overwhelming.

That’s why he intentionally built Smiles By Design to feel different, with compassionate team members, efficient treatment plans, and options to complete care while you’re comfortably asleep.

We want you to leave looking better than when you arrived—no removable appliances, no embarrassing moments, no “missing teeth” phase.

Four Levels of Sedation.
Let’s Find What’s Right for You.

From advanced numbing to full general anesthesia, we tailor sedation to your comfort and health history.

  • Advanced numbing only
    For patients who want to drive themselves and avoid sedation. We use:

    • Septocaine anesthetic
    • “The Wand” precision injection system
    • Vibration techniques
    • Imported topical anesthetic
    • Ceiling-mounted TVs
    • Spa music
    • Massage pads

    Dr. Keller has vowed to deliver painless injections that truly get you numb—because he knows how traumatic poor
    anesthesia can be.

  • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
    • Works quickly
    • Wears off quickly
    • Safe monitoring throughout
    • Adjustable relaxation level
    • You can drive home within about 30 minutes

    We can even trial nitrous at a hygiene visit if you’re unsure. (Not recommended during pregnancy.)

  • Oral sedation
    • Medication taken before the appointment
    • Most patients sleep through treatment
    • Continuous monitoring of pulse, oxygen saturation (SpO2), CO2 capnography, and respiratory rate
    • Supplemental oxygen provided

    This is how many of our complex procedures are completed efficiently and comfortably.

  • Intravenous (IV) sedation
    For patients with more complex health concerns.

    • Administered by an outside anesthesiologist
    • Most patients sleep through the entire visit
    • Requires a ride home
  • General anesthesia
    • Fully asleep
    • Ideal for complex surgical cases or special medical histories
    • Outside anesthesiologist present
    • Requires transportation home

    Main disadvantage: higher cost. Main advantage: maximum comfort and control.

Man in a oxygen mask in a dental chair

Transform Your Smile in 1–2 Visits

Many patients delay care for years because of fear—not any more!
Smiles By Design brand logo – Kirkland, WA
Reputation Built on Real Smiles

More than 300 five-star reviews from people who chose us
for complex, life-changing dentistry—not just cleanings.

I never thought I could look like this again!
Cindy's Story
I trusted the doctor. Shawn is absolutely the best!
Brian's Story

The hardest part is just coming here, just showing up.

Real Patient Story

That looks amazing! You guys really do a good job here

Real Patient Story

If you'd really like to keep smiling for the rest of your life you need to go and see Dr. Shawn Keller.

Real Patient Story

We were very comfortable with Dr. Keller. The process is awesome and life-changing.

Real Patient Story

I wish I knew about this before, and I could have done it a long time ago.

Real Patient Story
Since replacing my teeth, my high blood pressure, cough, neck, and back pain are all gone now.
Real Patient Story

My teeth were horrible and I was in pain. Now, I smile more than I have in 20 years.

Real Patient Story

I can now go into any restaurant, order what I want, and eat it, no problem.

Real Patient Story
I won't take my smile for granted. I'm so excited!
Real Patient Story
I'm not self-conscious anymore!
Real Patient Story
I loved the doctor's enthusiasm and energy.
Real Patient Story
I'm smiling from my heart.
Real Patient Story
I had my first corn on the cob. It was glorious!
Real Patient Story
He can look forward to life with a beautiful smile.
Real Patient Story
I'm happy with the overall outcome. My confidence has increased greatly.
Real Patient Story
I flew from Santa Fe to Seattle to have Dr. Keller fix my bite. And he did.
Real Patient Story
No way I could've gone skydiving with dentures!
Real Patient Story
I was pleased they dealt with underlying issues, not just cosmetics.
Real Patient Story
It really went together just beautifully.
Real Patient Story

Who Is Sedation Dentistry For?

If fear, discomfort, or past experience is keeping you from care,
this may be your answer.

Dental cabinet at Smiles By Design

Dental Anxiety Is More Common Than You Think

  • Fear of pain
  • Fear of judgment
  • Fear of embarrassment
  • Fear of failure

You are not weak. You are not dramatic.

You’ve likely been through something difficult.

Dr. Keller believes his personal journey was meant to help patients feel understood. And when you walk into Smiles By Design, you’ll feel that difference immediately.

Sedation dentistry in Kirkland, WA may be ideal if you:

  • Have severe dental anxiety
  • Have a strong gag reflex
  • Need extensive treatment
  • Have difficulty sitting still
  • Have had traumatic dental experiences
  • Have a complex medical history

Schedule your complimentary consultation, and we will help you choose the safest, most appropriate option.

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Feel Proud of Your Smile Again

Schedule your visit at Smiles By Design with Dr. Shawn Keller and enjoy
the life-changing results of a smile designed just for you.

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