Dental phobia is a common thing. It’s estimated that nearly 75% of adults in the United States have some form of dental phobia. Unfortunately, this keeps many people away from the dentist. When dental check-ups are left unchecked, health concerns such as gum disease and cavities can form and cause more severe health issues down the road.

While there is nothing to be afraid of, many dentists (including us at Loudoun Smile Center!) understand those fears and offer dental anesthesia and sedation options to help ease anxiety and stress over dental visits.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry incorporates medication to help ease a patient’s fears and relax them during dental procedures.

There are two primary types of dental sedation:

Conscious Sedation
This form of sedation is most commonly used for adults who suffer from mild to moderate dental anxiety. With conscious sedation, you’ll remain conscious throughout the procedure, but will feel very relaxed — and sleepy.
Intravenous Sedation
This form of sedation is effective, predictable, and extremely safe. Used mainly for the extremely nervous patients, you will be fully unconscious during the entire procedure. It’s the modern alternative to more general anesthesia practices.

How does it work?

At Loudoun Smile Center, dental anesthesia is administered and monitored by a Board-certified, in-office anesthesiologist. Local anesthesia is given in whichever form you and your dentist have decided upon, and will ease fear and pain throughout the procedure. You will be closely monitored during the entirety of the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety.

It is important to note that you should have a family member or friend accompany you to your appointment if you plan on using any form of sedation dentistry.

At Loudoun Smile Center, we offer a full range of sedation dentistry options to ensure our patients have the best experience possible. If you’ve experienced anxiety or stress over your visits to the dentist — whether for a routine dental cleaning or a more major dental surgery procedure –, contact us to learn if dental sedation would benefit you!