Dental anxiety and fear of the dentist are key factors in poor oral health. At Smiles by Mia, we want our patients to feel as comfortable as possible when they sit in their dental chairs. We offer dental sedation for patients who may find it difficult to make a dental appointment out of fear or anxiety.
Our friendly dental team is here to accommodate patients and ensure they get the care they need. Dental sedation is a part of general dental care and can even be used for routine cleanings and exams. Discover how we use sedation dentistry in our Burke, VA, practice.
Benefits of Dental Sedation
Dental sedation offers these benefits to patients:
- Pain-free dentistry
- Lowered discomfort
- Quick recovery time
- Anterograde amnesia (patients do not remember treatment)
- Efficient treatment
Sedation can benefit patients with:
- Special needs
- Poor gag reflexes
- Dental phobia
- Anxiety
Dental sedation is a helpful tool that allows us to perform important dental care for patients of every age. We monitor patients constantly under sedation to ensure that they feel comfortable and relaxed.
Sedation Dentistry in Burke, VA
Local anesthetic and general anesthesia are effective options that provide pain-free dental treatment. Before treatment, our team uses a dental anesthetic to numb the treated area of the mouth. General anesthesia uses medication or inhaled gas to calm and relax patients. Under general anesthesia, dental patients can fall asleep and wake up after their treatment. They will not remember anything about the procedure and will not feel pain during treatment.
Along with traditional dental sedation, we offer Opera VR headsets. Also known as Opera VR Digital Nitrous, these virtual reality headsets can help relax anxious and fearful patients. We place the headset around the patient’s head and choose a video and audio “adventure.” These adventures show patients relaxing nature scenes while they receive dental care. Opera VR is a great option for younger patients and adults who otherwise would avoid the dentist.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Dental sedation keeps patients relaxed and calm during their procedures. Learn more.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is considered very safe when administered by a trained and experienced dentist like Dr. Mia. Before the procedure, the dentist will review the patient’s medical history to determine the most appropriate sedative option. Vital signs such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety. While mild side effects like drowsiness may occur, serious complications are rare.
Can I eat or drink before my sedation appointment?
For nitrous oxide, patients can usually eat a light meal beforehand, but it’s best to follow your dentist’s instructions. For oral and IV sedation, patients are typically advised to avoid food and drink for at least six hours before the procedure. General anesthesia requires complete fasting for a longer period to prevent complications. We’ll provide specific guidelines for you to ensure a safe experience.
Can I still feel pain under sedation?
Most sedation methods significantly reduce pain and discomfort, but local anesthesia is often used alongside sedation to ensure a pain-free experience. Patients under deeper sedation, such as IV sedation or general anesthesia, typically do not feel any pain at all. Those receiving mild sedation, like nitrous oxide or oral sedation, may still feel pressure or movement but will be deeply relaxed.
Will I remember anything after being sedated?
Memory loss depends on the level of sedation used. With mild sedation (nitrous oxide), patients usually remember the procedure but feel relaxed. With oral or IV sedation, memory loss is common, and patients may only recall parts of the appointment or nothing at all. General anesthesia causes complete unconsciousness, so patients will have no memory of the procedure. This aspect of sedation is particularly beneficial for those with severe dental anxiety.
Are there age restrictions for sedation dentistry?
There are no strict age limits for sedation dentistry, but the type of sedation used depends on the patient’s age, health, and the procedure. Pediatric patients often receive nitrous oxide or mild oral sedation, while IV sedation or general anesthesia may be used for more extensive procedures. Older adults may also benefit from sedation, but their medical history must be carefully reviewed to minimize risks.
Who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Patients who experience dental anxiety, fear of needles, or pain sensitivity may benefit from sedation dentistry. It is also ideal for individuals with a strong gag reflex, difficulty sitting still for long periods, or those requiring extensive dental work. People with special needs or medical conditions that make dental care challenging can also benefit from sedation. However, we will evaluate medical history and overall health to determine if sedation is appropriate.
Contact Us Today
Do you or a loved one have dental fear or anxiety? We can help! Call Smiles by Mia today at (571) 789-1265 or request a dental appointment online. If you require dental sedation accommodations, please contact us, and we can help create a treatment for you or a loved one.