Sedation Dentistry – Bedford, VA
Helping You Conquer Your Dental Fears
Dental-related anxiety is a very common problem among patients of all ages, and it’s one that our team takes seriously. The last thing we want is for you or your loved ones to skip much-needed care because of these emotions – that’s why we work hard to create a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere with plenty of amenities.
Dr. Owen and Dr. Wolf have both completed a comprehensive and rigorous training program in sedation dentistry through DOCS Education. This certifies them to help the people in our community with this beneficial treatment. You no longer have to be afraid of the dentist. In addition, we often complete your treatment in a single visit so you do not need to lose work hours thanks to sedation dentistry in Bedford, VA.
If you’re in need of additional help to feel at ease, sedation dentistry is available as well for patients from Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, Goode, Moneta, Thaxton, and beyond. Contact PeaksView Dental today to schedule your first visit!
Why Choose PeaksView Dental for
Sedation Dentistry?
- Two Types of Relaxing Dental Sedation
- Team of Friendly and Caring Dental Experts
- Variety of Services Under One Roof
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Some dental anxieties are milder than others. If you only need a little bit of help staying calm during your appointment, we can administer nitrous oxide sedation during your next visit. Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can put you in a state of euphoria throughout the course of your treatment. Unlike oral sedation, nitrous oxide sedation wears off quickly. After the treatment ends, you’ll only have to wait a few minutes to recover to the point where you’ll be able to drive home by yourself. Until then, here's what you should know about this form of sedation dentistry.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?
Nitrous oxide is one of the most common forms of sedation used in dentistry because virtually all patients can be eligible. Not only is it effective, but it’s also safe for children to older adults—making it incredibly versatile for those wanting to undergo dental care while comfortable and relaxed. Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as “laughing gas,” is usually recommended for those who:
- Feel anxious or fearful of dental appointments
- Struggle with sensitive gums, teeth, or gag reflex
- Have shoulder, neck, back, or other discomfort while sitting down for too long
- Have difficulty with numbing medication
Patients who are breastfeeding, suffer from nasal congestion or have certain medical conditions may not be eligible for nitrous oxide. Of course, our team will evaluate your medical history and any issues you might have to determine if this treatment is right for you.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Simply put, you will receive nitrous oxide sedation via a nasal mask, allowing you to easily breathe in the odorless and colorless gas. This medication is meant to help slow down the brain so that you can be in a more euphoric or dream-like state while undergoing your dental treatment. In some instances, patients may start giggling due to their increased relaxation, hence the nickname “laughing gas.”
With this form of sedation, you’ll remain completely conscious throughout your appointment. This means you’ll easily be able to follow and respond to simple instructions and questions from our team. A qualified staff member will also closely monitor your vitals and adjust the level of nitrous oxide as necessary to ensure you’re comfortable and safe during your treatment.
Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide
One of the best things about nitrous oxide is that its effects have an extremely short recovery period. After we’ve removed the nasal mask, you should feel back to normal just as quickly as the sedative kicked in. Not only does this mean you won’t have to arrange for a friend or family member to take you to and from your appointment, but you can also resume your daily schedule right after your visit.
Of course, our team will want to ensure that you’re safe from any temporary effects like nausea, fatigue, or dizziness. Once we’ve confirmed that you’re in good condition, you’ll be free to go on about your day while following any treatment-specific guidelines on how to maintain your dental care results.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe?
For most patients, sedation dentistry is a perfectly safe solution. In fact, most people handle nitrous oxide with no issues, and out of all the sedation options it is the safest for the largest amount of people.
Before determining whether you are a good candidate for sedation, your dentist will review your medical history and current medications (both prescription and OTC) to determine if there will be any negative interactions.
While under sedation, your dentist and dental team will closely monitor your vitals (including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels) to ensure that you are safe for the duration of the procedure.
Is sedation dentistry safe for kids?
If your child is afraid of the dentist, sedation dentistry can help relax them so they can receive the care they need and reduce their risk of having dental anxiety later in life. This can lead to healthier smiles during adulthood!
Nitrous oxide is the type of sedation that is most frequently used with children; however, oral conscious sedation may be used in the case of severe anxiety or if the child has physical or mental impairments that could make dental care uncomfortable or unsafe.
Be sure to notify your dentist about any medications your child is taking, as well as any medical conditions they may have.
Often, nausea is the only side effect of sedation. To limit your child’s risk of this, be sure to limit their food and fluid intake before their procedure.
If your child is receiving oral conscious sedation, it may be several hours after their procedure before the effects to wear off, so be sure to pay close attention to them during this time.
Is sedation dentistry safe while pregnant?
The drugs involved in dental sedation can pass on to the fetus through the placenta. Using sedation during your first trimester may also lead to problems with your child’s development.
Sedation during the third trimester may encourage premature labor.
Sedation is typically safest during your second trimester; however, most dentists recommend that invasive dental procedures that require sedation wait until after pregnancy if possible.
Should you require sedation while pregnant, it is best to use the minimal amount and type possible to make you comfortable. Most often, this means nitrous oxide over other methods.
Will I remember anything with dental sedation?
Despite being technically awake with most forms of sedation, you still may not remember much of your procedure.
The memory loss effect that sedation may have can make getting dental care a lot easier for patients with severe anxiety.
