Alexandria, VA

Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry

Modern dentistry offers a variety of techniques to help patients stay comfortable during dental procedures. Learning more about these techniques can ease patients' concerns about the procedures they need. A sedation dentist uses medication to provide patients with a safe and comfortable dental care experience. Sedation can make necessary dental procedures much easier and is one of several options available to manage pain and anxiety at the dental office.


Visiting the dentist causes extreme worry in many patients, but they can often combat this stress by being sedated during dental procedures. A sedation dentist is trained to provide patients with medication that can relieve anxiety by making them feel drowsy and relaxed. The American Dental Association has strict guidelines in place to determine which of the following types of sedation is most suitable for individual patients. Strong medication is administered through an IV. This allows the medicine to take effect more quickly and provides deeper sedation. Although most patients remain awake, they are extremely groggy and have little to no recollection of the procedure afterward. Some patients may fall into a light sleep but can be awakened easily once the dental procedure is complete.

Treatments That Require Sedation

Local anesthesia is typically administered for minor restorative procedures such as cavity fillings, tooth extractions, root canal treatments, dental crown placement, and scaling and root planing. General anesthesia, usually inhaled or administered through an IV, is used for more severe procedures. It is commonly used for bone grafts, corrective jaw surgery, general tooth extractions, oral cancer surgery, sleep apnea surgery, cosmetic dental procedures, and cleft lip/palate surgery.

Treating Dental Anxiety with Sedation Dentistry

Dental anxiety is a fairly common term used to describe patients of all ages who are anxious about visiting the dentist. Although many people experience this at least once in their lives, especially as young children, it can become a problem for both oral and general health. Understanding what dental anxiety and dental phobia are and how to control them can greatly boost health levels, helping to reverse the scenario so that you or your child enjoys visiting the dentist. Patients with more severe dental anxiety or phobia are generally given a form of sedation so that they remain calm, comfortable, pain-free, and often asleep throughout the duration of their treatment.

Sedation Dentistry FAQs

  • Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

    Sedation dentistry is safe for many people. However, patients who have sleep apnea or are obese have a higher risk of complications from the medication. They should inform the doctor of their medical history so the practitioner can determine if sedation is the right solution.

  • Who Would Benefit From Sedation Dentistry?

    Patients who experience severe anxiety over the thought of visiting the dentist should consider sedation dentistry. This practice also benefits people with gag reflexes, sensitive teeth, or low pain tolerances. It may also be an option for those who have difficulty sitting still for extended periods or need a significant amount of work done.


    Proper oral hygiene, including routine dental exams and cleanings, is essential for good oral health. However, many people have distress during dental procedures, causing them to avoid the dentist as often as possible. This leads to a decline in oral health and could lead to major problems in the future. A sedation dentist helps patients relax to undergo the cleanings and other procedures they need to maintain healthy teeth.

  • Which Procedures Require Anesthesia?

    Topical or local anesthesia is generally administered in one area of the mouth when using dental tools or drills to provide painless treatment. This can be for fillings, root canals, and deep cleanings. General anesthesia, or sedation, is used for more extensive procedures such as extractions, which are not routinely performed.

  • Is There A Recovery Period After Being Sedated For Dental Procedures?

    Most patients will feel drowsy for a few hours after seeing a sedation dentist. If you have received mild sedation, you may be able to drive yourself home, but should rest the remainder of the day. Patients who receive moderate to deep sedatives will need someone else to drive them home and may sleep for a few hours after the appointment. However, all patients can resume their normal lifestyles the day after the procedure.