Sedation Dentistry in Virginia

What's Sedation Dentistry?

The most common types of dental sedation we use are oral sedation, IV sedation dentistry, and sleep dentistry. Oral sedation and IV sedation methods use medication to put you in a relaxed, semi-conscious state that keeps you aware of your surroundings, but you're very relaxed. Oral sedation and sleep dentistry methods don't put you to sleep; they use general anesthesia so that you're not aware of your procedure. They can be used for major procedures or for simple ones like tooth cleanings. If you want more information on sedation for dental treatment, call VA Smiles and we'll answer all your questions.

Why Should I Use Oral Sedation Dentistry?

The main reason for using dental sedation is to maintain your good oral health. Research has linked poor oral health to serious diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, dementia, and diabetes, so maintaining good oral health is essential for good physical health and longevity. Dental sedation also helps prevent the gag reflex that many patients experience when told to “open wide.”

Understandably, many people are anxious about their experience in the dentist's chair, although we endeavor to make the experience as pleasant as possible and alleviate the anxiety sometimes associated with it. That's why we offer several types of oral sedation dentistry. We want our patients to maintain the best oral health possible without feeling anxious about it. If you're interested in dental sedation, call and we'll answer all your questions and schedule an appointment if you'd like.

What Types of Sedation for Dental Treatment Do You Offer?

We provide several types of dental sedation, including the following:

• Inhaled minimal sedation: This type of dental sedation involves the use of nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, and uses a mask. The gas helps you to relax, and your dentist can control the amount you receive during your procedure.
• Oral sedation: This is the most common type of sedation we use. Oral conscious sedation means we give you a pill such as Halcion, and you get drowsy. You're awake during the procedure, but you're not anxious about it. Some patients fall asleep during this type of sleep dentistry, but some remain awake.
• IV Sedation dentistry: With IV sedation dentistry, we'll place an IV, and you'll receive your sedative directly into a vein. This method acts the quickest, and your dentist can adjust the level of sedation throughout the procedure.
• Deep sedation dentistry: With this type of dental sedation, you'll receive medication that will put you into a deep sleep. You won't wake up until the medication wears off, which can take a couple of hours depending on your body's reaction to the medication.

What's the Cost of Sedation Dentistry in VA Smiles?

Your sedation dentistry cost will be unique to you and will be influenced by several factors, such as the amount of sedation needed, the complexity of the treatment, and your insurance coverage. We recommend that all patients speak with their provider before their appointment to determine the scope of their plan, including its provisions, exclusions, and copays. If the sedation dentistry cost is an issue, VA Smiles has several financing plans to help you afford the procedures you need without suffering dental anxiety or dental phobia.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Sedation?

Some insurance plans cover dental sedation, and some don't. If an anesthesia is considered medically necessary, it's more likely to be covered than if it's considered optional. Again, be sure to speak to your provider before your appointment to determine the scope and details of your plan.

How Long Does Sedation Last?

The duration of your sedation depends on the type of sleep dentistry you receive, as well as your body's reaction to it. After inhaled sedation, many patients can drive. Other types, especially general anesthesia, can take hours to wear off. To be on the safe side, we recommend that you arrange for alternative transportation after your treatment.

If you need a dental appointment, whether you need an annual cleaning and exam or have a more serious dental issue, call VA Smiles at , and let us help you. We're among the best in the area, and we're sure you'll be pleased with our service. Call us today. We look forward to working with you.