Sedation Dentistry in Chesterfield VA

Sedation Dentistry Takes the Anxiety Out of Visiting the Dentist

If you get anxious at just the thought of sitting in a dentist’s chair even for something as simple and routine as a regular checkup and cleaning, you’re not alone. Many people would rather suffer the pain of a toothache than walk through the door of a dentist’s office.

Fortunately, you can get the dental care you need without all the anxiety by simply seeking out a sedation dentist near me.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the use of medication to aid patients in relaxing while undergoing a dental procedure.

While it is sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” with a sedation dentist, patients typically remain awake during the procedure with the exception of when general anesthesia is used.

Levels of Sedation a Sedation Dentist Uses

There are typically four main levels of sedation a sedation dentist may use, ranging from the mildest to the most extreme:

  1. Minimal sedation – The patient is awake but relaxed.
  2. Moderate sedation – The patient may slur words and forget much of the procedure.
  3. Deep sedation – The patient is on the verge of unconsciousness but can still awaken.
  4. General anesthesia – The patient is fully unconscious.

Types of Sedation in Sedation Dentistry

There are four main types of sedation a sedation dentist may use depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s medical history and circumstances.

  1. Inhaled minimal sedation - Through breathing in nitrous oxide, aka “laughing gas,” for easily controllable, short-term relaxation
  2. Oral sedation - Through taking a pill like a form of Valium about an hour ahead of the procedure to make the patient drowsy
  3. IV moderate sedation - Directly through a vein for quicker results and also easier for the dentist to control but more intense sedation than the inhaled form
  4. Deep sedation and general anesthesia - Through medication also delivered intravenously that knocks the patient out completely and generally requires time to wear off or medication to reverse in order for the patient to awaken

Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

If your child has significant fear or anxiety about dental visits and procedures, he or she may be a good candidate for a pediatric sedation dentist. It may also be suitable for your child if he or she:

  • Has a low threshold for pain
  • Has extremely sensitive teeth
  • Has a severe gag reflex
  • Is unable to sit still in a dentist’s chair
  • Is undergoing a more extensive dental procedure

Where to Find a Sedation Dentist Near Me

If you live in the Richmond, VA, area and you're looking for a pediatric sedation dentist near me, you've just found the only one you need. At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we make it convenient to plan your child's visit. Contact us at Bitty Bites in Chesterfield, VA, to request an appointment time that fits your busy schedule. We can't wait to see your child!