Sedation Dentistry
Trusted Sedation Dentistry in Manassas Park, VA
Dental anxiety keeps a lot of people from getting the care they need. If the thought of a dental chair makes your chest tighten, or a bad experience years ago still has you putting off checkups, sedation dentistry can make treatment possible without the dread. Railroad Dental Associates has offered sedation dentistry to patients in Manassas Park, Manassas, Centreville, and Clifton for years, and it’s one of the services patients ask us about most.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help you relax during treatment. Depending on the type used, you may stay fully aware and simply calm, or drift into a light sleep and remember very little afterward. It isn’t the same as the general anesthesia used for hospital surgery. The goal is comfort, not unconsciousness, except with the deepest IV option. The American Dental Association recognizes minimal, moderate, and deep sedation as appropriate options for suitable patients when a trained, licensed provider administers them.
Could Sedation Dentistry Help You?
Sedation may be worth discussing with our team if any of the following sound familiar:
- Significant fear or anxiety about dental visits
- A strong gag reflex that makes cleanings, X-rays, or impressions difficult
- Trouble getting numb with local anesthetic alone
- A long or complex procedure, such as multiple extractions or a full-mouth restoration
- Limited mobility or a condition that makes sitting still for treatment difficult
- Sensitive teeth or a low pain threshold
- Nervous or anxious children, see our guide to caring for kids’ dental visits for what to expect
- A dental emergency that needs immediate treatment
Your Sedation Options at Railroad Dental Associates
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Inhaled through a small nasal mask, nitrous oxide is the mildest option we offer. It takes effect within minutes, wears off almost as quickly, and in most cases you’re able to drive yourself home after your appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
You take a prescribed sedative before your visit. You’ll remain conscious and able to respond to the dental team, but you’ll feel deeply relaxed, and many patients remember little of the procedure afterward. Because the effects last longer than nitrous oxide, you’ll need someone to drive you home.
IV Sedation
For longer or more involved procedures, our dentists work with a board-certified anesthesiologist to administer sedation intravenously. You’re monitored continuously throughout the appointment, and most patients sleep through treatment entirely.
What to Expect
Before Your Appointment
We’ll review your medical history and current medications, talk through which sedation option fits your procedure and anxiety level, and go over any instructions, such as not eating beforehand for deeper sedation. Plan to arrange a ride home in advance if you’re having oral conscious or IV sedation, and see our financial info page for questions about cost and payment options.
During Your Appointment
Our team monitors your vital signs throughout treatment, with the level of monitoring matched to the depth of sedation you’re receiving. A member of our staff stays with you from start to finish.
After Your Appointment
Most patients feel some grogginess for two to six hours after oral conscious or IV sedation. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day, avoid driving or making significant decisions, and have your ride confirmed before you arrive.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation dentistry has a strong safety record when it’s provided by trained, licensed clinicians who screen patients carefully beforehand. Be sure to tell us about your full medical history, current medications, and any past reactions to sedation or anesthesia so we can recommend the right option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I remember my dental appointment?
With nitrous oxide, most patients remain aware of the procedure. With oral conscious or IV sedation, many patients remember little to nothing afterward.
Do I need someone to drive me home?
Yes, for oral conscious sedation and IV sedation. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly enough that most patients can drive themselves.
How long will I feel groggy afterward?
Typically two to six hours, depending on the type of sedation and the individual patient. Plan to take it easy for the rest of the day.
Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan and by the reason sedation is medically necessary. Our financial info page has details, or call our office and we can check your specific benefits.
Is sedation dentistry an option for children?
Yes, for children who experience significant fear or anxiety at the dentist. Visit our kids’ dentistry page to learn more about how we care for younger patients.
Ready to Get Started?
If dental anxiety has kept you from getting the care you need, we’d like to help. Call Railroad Dental Associates at (703) 365-0230 or request an appointment online to talk through your sedation options.