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!

Woman with healthy smile after sedation dentistry

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.

Oral
Conscious Dental Sedation

Dental patient taking oral conscious dental sedation pill

90 million people in the U.S. do not see a dentist because of fear. More than a million people have conquered that fear with the safe and effective treatment called oral conscious sedation. Oral conscious sedation makes it possible for patients with dental to have needed dental treatment done to restore their mouth to optimal health.

After Dr. Wolf or Dr. Owen carefully reviews your medical history, he chooses an appropriate medication and level of sedation to meet your needs. You will take one pill the night before and one pill before arriving at the dental office on the day of your treatment. You may also need additional medication depending on the type of procedures performed and the duration of the appointment. The best part is that, due to the amnesic properties of the medications, you will have little-to-no memory of your time in the dental chair by the next day.