Does the mere thought of visiting the dentist make your heart race and palms sweat? If so, you’re not alone. Research shows that as many as 40 million Americans avoid getting dental care each year due to anxiety or phobia surrounding these visits.
At Capital Area Dentistry in Falls Church, we understand that dental fears are very real and can have a major impact on a person’s oral health. That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure your experience is as relaxing and comfortable as possible.
In addition to our warm, office environment and caring chairside manner, we offer multiple sedation dentistry options to help even the most anxious patients ease their minds before treatment.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to induce a relaxed, calm state during dental procedures. Depending on the sedation method used and your individual needs, it can produce a light tranquil feeling or full sleep-like sedation.
Types of Dental Sedation
At Capital Area Dentistry, you have several calming choices when it comes to sedation. The best option for you depends on your levels of anxiety, the treatments being performed, and your medical history.
Nitrous Oxide: Also called “laughing gas,” nitrous is an odorless gas that you inhale through a mask. It puts you in a calm, euphoric state so you remain awake but anxiety melts away. Effects wear off quickly after removal.
Oral Sedation: You’ll take a prescribed sedative pill around an hour before treatment to achieve a light to moderate sedated state. You’ll remain awake but in a relaxed “sleep” state.
IV Sedation: For more complex procedures or severe dental phobia, IV sedation allows you to sleep through the entire treatment while your vitals are closely monitored. You’ll have little or no memory afterwards.
At your consultation, we’ll go over your specific needs, health history, and anxiety levels to help determine the most appropriate sedation method. We follow strict protocols to ensure your safety and comfort at all times.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Peace of Mind: From the moment you arrive, you’ll be free from anxiety and fear. Many patients don’t even remember their procedure afterwards!
Work Completed in One Visit: Extensive treatments can often be finished more efficiently in a single sedation appointment.
No Gag Reflex: Sedation eliminates issues with nausea or gagging commonly caused by high anxiety.
More Positive Experiences: Without fear and anxiety, you’re much more likely to keep up with routine care.
Improved Safety: Sedation makes you less likely to move unexpectedly and put yourself at risk.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation?
While most commonly used for patients who experience dental phobia, sedation dentistry can be helpful for a wide range of people, including:
- Children and those with special needs
- People undergoing lengthy or complex treatments
- Those with active gag reflexes or low pain tolerance
- Individuals bothered by noises, smells, or having hands in their mouth
Breaking the Fear of Dentistry
At Capital Area Dentistry in Falls Church, we believe there’s no need for anyone to suffer from dental anxiety any longer. Combining our warm, compassionate approach with the latest sedation techniques, we’re able to provide a relaxed, positive dental experience for even our most fearful patients. Don’t let anxiety keep you from achieving a healthy, confident smile!
Say goodbye to dental dread by exploring sedation dentistry with our caring team in Falls Church. Learn more about your options at a free consultation today!
