Sedation Dentistry – Fairfax, VA

Who is a Good Candidate for Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide sedation is mild enough that it’s safe for the large majority of patients. Most often, it’s used to help those who struggle with dental-related anxiety, have a fear of needles, need extensive dental care, or experience uncomfortable sensitivity. At your first appointment, we will learn more about any medications you’re taking or any conditions you have to determine if you’re a candidate. If you’re not, don’t worry – we will work on another way to give you the pleasant and positive dental experience you deserve.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

Nitrous oxide sedation is administered after you settle into the treatment chair. First, we will place a nasal mask over your nose and switch on the nitrous oxide. As the colorless, odorless gas begins to flow, we’ll ask you to continue to breathe like normal. Within a few minutes, you should start to feel more content and relaxed. When you’re ready to begin, we will administer the necessary dental care. Throughout your appointment, we will check-in with you to ensure you still feel anxiety-free. If at any point the nitrous oxide needs to be adjusted, we can do that as well!

Aftercare for Nitrous Oxide

One of the biggest advantages of nitrous oxide is that the effects wear off just as quickly once the mask is removed. This means patients can return to their daily routine following treatment with virtually no downtime required. In other words, you won’t have to worry about arranging for a trusted adult to drive you home from your appointment or taking the day off work to recover! Of course, we will still provide you with aftercare instructions specific to the treatment you received to help you heal comfortably.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe for patients in good health. Our office offers nitrous oxide, which is generally the safest type of sedation. It’s a great option for patients of all ages, including children. Our dental team has completed training in sedation dentistry for your safety. You will also be monitored closely during your appointment to detect anything concerning quickly.

Can I Drive Myself Home?

Nitrous oxide is an inhaled sedative that takes effect quickly. A mask is placed over your nose to deliver the medication. Once the mask is removed, you’ll feel completely normal within a few minutes. You don’t have to worry about any lingering side effects, so you can drive yourself home from your appointment.

What Does Dental Sedation Feel Like?

Nitrous oxide will help you feel relaxed. Your extremities may feel heavy or tingle. Some patients get the giggles. Nitrous oxide can be combined with numbing medications to ensure a comfortable, pain-free day in the dentist’s chair.

Will I Remember Anything with Dental Sedation?

Some dental sedation can have memory loss effects. It’s not unusual for nitrous oxide to cause fragmented memory, which can be a benefit for patients who have had previous negative dental experiences.

Can I Use My Dental Insurance for Sedation Dentistry?

Dental insurance often classifies sedation as a luxury service, so it isn’t always covered. However, there are exceptions. If the overall cost of your treatment would be more expensive without sedation, your insurance may pay some of the expenses. Sedation can also be covered if treatment is impossible or delayed without it. A member of our office will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize any applicable benefits. Our office offers multiple financial solutions to keep dental sedation affordable, like third-party financing. You can pay any out-of-pocket expenses using a monthly payment plan, based on your credit approval.