Sedation Dentistry in Virginia

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Oral sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help people relax when receiving dental treatment. While it’s often referred to as sleep dentistry, that doesn’t mean you’re asleep during the procedure. With dental sedation, patients are awake except for when under general anesthesia. Sleep dentistry can be used for a variety of procedures, including tooth cleanings and invasive treatments.

Sedation Dentistry Cost

As with most dental treatments, your sedation dentistry cost will depend on your unique situation. Fortunately, most sleep dentistry options can be affordable. Be sure to ask about our office’s financing plans, which can help you manage the cost of dental sedation.

Why Use Dental Sedation?

Many people avoid receiving the treatment they need due to fear or anxiety about the dentist. Sedation for dental treatment allows you to become fully relaxed and feel stress-free while at the dentist. Don’t let dental anxiety get in the way of your oral health. Call us today to learn more about sedation dentistry in Virginia.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

We offer a variety of dental sedation options. Sedation for dental treatment options include:

• Inhaled minimal sedation: This type of sedation involves breathing in nitrous oxide, otherwise known as “laughing gas,” through a mask. The gas helps you relax, and the dentist can control how much gas is administered.
• Oral sedation: The most common type of oral sedation dentistry, oral conscious sedation involves taking a pill like Halcion, which will make you drowsy. You’ll remain awake throughout the procedure, though some patients become groggy enough to sleep.
• IV sedation dentistry: IV sedation dentistry involves receiving the sedative through a vein, allowing you to relax quickly. The dentist can manually adjust the sedation level throughout the procedure.
• Deep sedation dentistry: During this form of sedation, the dentist administers medication that will make you fall deeply asleep. You will not be easily awakened until the anesthesia wears off or is reversed.

Dental Sedation Benefits

Sedation dentistry in Virginia offers many benefits. The main advantage is that you’ll receive the treatment you require without dental anxiety. You also won’t experience any pain throughout the procedure. Lastly, oral sedation dentistry can stop you from gagging during treatment.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Sedation?

Sedation dentistry insurance coverage varies depending on your case. Anesthesia that is deemed medically necessary is more likely to be covered. Be sure to check with your insurance provider before receiving sedation treatment.

How Long Does Dental Sedation Last?

The length of dental sedation depends on which type of sleep dentistry you receive. After inhaled sedation, many patients are able to drive a car afterward. Other types, such as IV sedation dentistry or general anesthesia, can take hours to wear off.