Sedation Dentistry Explained

Welcome back to the ongoing blog of Fox Family Dentistry. In today’s post, we would like to discuss a service we offer that could make a huge difference for your dental health: sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry (or dental sedation) can help you feel more relaxed and at ease while visiting our office. If you experience dental fear or anxiety and are letting these feelings stand in the way of achieving and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, dental sedation may be right for you.

Our Burke, VA dental team would be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding dental sedation and your oral health care. Please give us a call when any concerns you may have. Below, we have answered some of the most common questions we hear regarding sedation.

What Is Dental Sedation?

Dental sedation is a variety of medications and substances that our highly trained team can use to help our patients relax. Sedation is especially helpful in cases where the patient is experiencing dental fear or anxiety, or if they are undergoing a long or complicated procedure. Not all dental offices offer the option of dental sedation, but we do so that our patients can feel as comfortable as possible during their visit to our office.

How Many Levels of Sedation Do You Offer? What Are the Benefits of Each?

At Fox Family Dentistry, we offer three levels of dental sedation: nitrous oxide, oral consciousness, and IV sedation. We can help you determine which level of sedation is right for your particular situation if any. Read on to learn more about each different level and in what type of situations it can be used.

Nitrous oxide sedation. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is our lowest level of sedation. This type of sedation is a gas that is inhaled via a face mask and produces a sense of euphoria. This level of sedation is great for patients who need only a little bit of help relaxing. It is even great for nervous kids!

Oral conscious sedation. Oral conscious sedation is our mid-level sedation option. This type of sedation is ingested via a pill or tablet and produces grogginess that allows moderately fearful or nervous patients to relax. The medication is consumed prior to the appointment, so you will need a ride to and from our office if you choose this method of sedation. Oral conscious sedation affects everyone differently but is entirely safe to use under the supervision of our experienced team.

IV sedation. IV sedation is our highest level of dental sedation and is used to create a sleep-like state. If you choose IV sedation, you will wake from the procedure remembering nothing of the sights, smells, sounds, or sensations. This is a great sedation option for patients who are very fearful or anxious or who are undergoing a complicated dental procedure. Talk to our team to determine if IV sedation is right for you.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Absolutely. Our dental team is highly trained to administer each level of sedation we offer. In fact, special licensure is required to administer IV sedation — we bring in an experienced anesthesiologist to ensure that you are completely safe and well-cared-for. Under the supervision of our staff and licensed professionals, you are in good hands.

Is Dental Sedation Right for Me?

For some people, dental sedation can really make a difference between being too scared to visit the dentist and being able to get the care they need. If you fall into this category, we would be delighted to help you. We can help you determine which level of sedation is appropriate for your level of fear or anxiety. If you are ready to finally get the care you need, please contact our team.

How Can I Schedule an Appointment?

Do you think sedation dentistry can help you? We would be happy to discuss your specific situation and determine whether or not you are a good candidate. Please contractor Burke, VA dental office to schedule a consultation. You can reach us at 703-978-5253. A member of our team would be happy to assist you in finding a suitable date and time for your visit.

If you are tired of letting your dental fear or anxiety keep you from maintaining a happy, healthy smile, we encourage you to reach out to us. We can’t wait to hear from you!