Sedation Dentistry

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Many Americans avoid seeing their dentist out of fear. These individuals would endure painful, infected, discolored, and damaged teeth than set foot in a dental office. Or, if they do agree to make an appointment, they dread it all week. Sedation dentistry in Herndon uses medication to provide a more relaxing experience for those patients who might otherwise not receive dental care because of dental anxiety or dental phobia. Sometimes referred to as “relaxation” or “anxiety-free” dentistry, it is now offered by thousands of dentists, including Dr. Mark Jefferies in Herndon, VA.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right For You?

Sedation dentistry might be right for you if you avoid dental visits due to anxiety. Often, that stress can be attributed to the following:

• Negative past experiences
• Fear of pain or gagging/choking
• Extreme discomfort with the sounds and smells of the dental office
• Not wanting to feel numb
• The feeling of losing control

Sedation dentistry may also be appropriate for people who:

• Aren’t able to sit still in a dentist’s chair
• Need a large amount of dental work completed
• Have a low pain threshold

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Laughing Gas

“Laughing gas” is an effective sedative that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose. It does not put you to sleep. You can still carry on a conversation with the dentist, but it does help you feel calmer and more comfortable. The effects wear off soon after we remove the mask, and you should be able to drive home after the procedure.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation relaxes you and reduces your sense of pain. You know your surroundings and can converse, but you’ll be less responsive to what is happening. You will probably also feel drowsy and might feel like taking a nap during the procedure.

The pill that we most often use is Halcion, which is a member of the same drug family as Valium. We’ll usually have you take it about an hour before the procedure. Find a friend or family member to drive you home if you have taken oral sedation.

What To Expect

Step 1: Assessment and Evaluation

The first step in sedation dentistry is to assess and evaluate your medical history, current oral health status, and previous experiences with dental procedures. This assessment is crucial in determining the appropriate type of sedation you require to keep them calm and relaxed during the procedure.

Step 2: Administration of Sedation

Once our dental team has evaluated you, we will choose the most suitable form of sedation, depending on your specific needs. 

Step 3: Monitoring and Safety

Patient safety is always our top priority when it comes to sedation dentistry. Our dental team will continuously monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation.

Step 4: Recovery and Follow-up Care

After the dental procedure, we will continue to monitor your vital signs until you are ready to be discharged. You may feel groggy or sleepy for a few hours after the procedure, and we advise you to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery during this time. Our team will also provide post-procedure care instructions and medication if necessary.

Sedation Dentistry in Herndon, VA

We strive to ensure all our patients feel comfortable in our dental office. Our relaxing atmosphere and professional and friendly staff have helped hundreds of patients feel more comfortable at the dentist’s. 

Contact us for more details. We offer many services to meet your dental needs, including family, cosmetic, general, restorative, and preventative dentistry in Herndon, Virginia. Our experienced and compassionate team of dental professionals prioritize your oral health and well-being and work together to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Visit us today – we’ll provide exceptional care and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Trust your dental health to Mark Jefferies Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.