Sedation Dentistry in Northern Virginia

What Should I Know About Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses a variety of methods, from laughing gas, IV sedation dentistry, and oral sedation dentistry, to help patients feel comfortable while receiving dental care. Although it’s also referred to as “sleep dentistry,” you’ll remain awake under dental sedation unless you’re receiving general anesthesia. If you choose sedation for dental treatment, you’ll receive gas or a sedative medication during your procedure. Dental sedation can be used for a variety of dental procedures, including teeth cleanings and oral surgery.

What Is My Sedation Dentistry Cost?

Your sedation dentistry cost can vary, depending on the length of your dental procedure and the type of sedation you receive. We understand that cost is a factor for many patients, so we strive to make the sleep dentistry cost affordable. Be sure to contact our office for more information about financing plans to help you manage out-of-pocket costs.

Why Should I Choose Dental Sedation?

There are many reasons why patients choose dental sedation. One of the primary reasons is because sedation reduces dental anxiety, helping you to relax and feel more comfortable during treatment. To learn more about how you can benefit from our calming sedation dentistry in Falls Church, contact our office to make an appointment.

What Are the Different Types of Sleep Dentistry?

There are several types of sedation dentistry, including:

Laughing gas: Laughing gas is one of the most popular forms of dental sedation. With this method, a small mask is placed over your nose to deliver a combination of gases. You’ll start to feel relaxed soon after breathing in the gas, and you’ll remain awake and able to interact with your dentist.

Oral sedation dentistry: If you choose oral sedation, you’ll take a pill about an hour before your dental appointment. The medication is typically Halcion, which is very similar to Valium. The medication will make you feel drowsy, although you’ll likely stay awake during your procedure. However, some patients may feel relaxed enough to fall asleep.

IV sedation dentistry: With IV sedation, the dentist injects a sedative through an IV inserted into a vein. This helps the medication work quickly, helping you achieve a deeper level of sedation. The dentist is able to adjust the level of sedation throughout your procedure.

Deep sedation: Deep sedation is a form of general anesthesia, and you’ll receive medications that induce a deep sleep, ensuring that you’re unconscious during the procedure. This method is frequently used for patients who require surgical dental procedures on the mouth or jaw.

To develop a treatment plan that best meets your needs, our dentists will discuss the options we offer and make the appropriate recommendation.

Are There Benefits to Sleep Dentistry?

Dental sedation offers many proven benefits for patients. Reducing the fear and anxiety associated with visiting the dentist is the main benefit of dental sedation. It can also help patients who have a sensitive gag reflex, eliminating the feeling of choking or gagging while receiving treatment. Although anesthetics virtually eliminate pain during dental procedures, some patients have a fear of needles. With dental sedation, it’s possible to have a stress-free experience at the dentist’s office. Finally, sedation dentistry can enable patients to receive a large amount of dental work in fewer visits, helping the dentist work more efficiently and the patient feel more relaxed.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Sedation?

Some insurance providers consider dental sedation and elective treatment and may not include coverage for sedation. However, if sedation is considered medically necessary, your dental insurance may cover the cost for sedation treatment. Speak with your provider to find out whether sedation dentistry insurance is included in your plan.

How Long Are the Effects of Dental Sedation?

The duration of the effects of sedation for dental treatment are determined by which sedative you receive. The effects of laughing gas tend to wear off quickly, and many patients are able to drive home after receiving this type of mild sedation. The effects of oral sedation and IV sedation dentistry can take hours to wear off. For this reason, we recommend having a friend or family member drive you home after receiving a stronger sedation method.

Ready to find out if stress-free sedation dentistry in Falls Church is right for you? Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment. We can help you have a more relaxed, comfortable experience at the dentist.