How To Overcome Dental Anxiety

By Let's Smile Dental

Sedation Dentistry Ensures a Comfortable Experience

Dental phobia and anxiety are common issues that prevent many people from seeking the care they need. Fortunately, dentists offer various solutions to make treatments more comfortable and less stressful. These include laughing gas, oral sedation, and general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs.

Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)

One of the most frequently used methods to ease dental anxiety is laughing gas (nitrous oxide). This mild sedative is inhaled through a mask and helps patients feel relaxed without completely putting them to sleep. The effects wear off quickly, allowing patients to safely drive home after their appointment. It’s ideal for both children and adults who experience mild to moderate anxiety during treatments like cleanings or fillings.

Oral Sedation

For patients who need a stronger sedative, oral sedation may be an option. This involves taking a pill before the procedure, which induces a deeper state of relaxation. While patients remain awake, they feel groggy and may not remember much of the procedure afterward. Oral sedation is particularly helpful for adults undergoing more complex treatments such as multiple crowns or implants. Oral sedation can also be used for children under the care of a trained and certified pediatric dentist.

Sedation Dentistry With a Dental Anesthesiologist

In cases of severe anxiety or for long, involved treatments, such as oral surgery or extensive restorative work, some patients may need to be put completely to sleep. This is where a dental anesthesiologist comes in. These specialists are trained to safely administer deep sedation or general anesthesia, ensuring the patient remains unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure. Using a dental anesthesiologist is often recommended for lengthy treatments or for patients with extreme dental phobia. General anesthesia can also be used for children when necessary.

Safety Regulations and Certification

To ensure that sedation procedures are performed safely, dentists in Virginia must obtain specific certifications from the Virginia Board of Dentistry. Dentists who administer moderate or deep sedation, including general anesthesia, are required to have a sedation permit. They must comply with the state’s regulations outlined in the Virginia Department of Health Professions, which govern the use of sedation and anesthesia in dental practices. These permits are granted after the dentist has completed rigorous training and demonstrated proficiency in managing sedation and its potential complications. Additionally, dental anesthesiologists require even more specialized training and certification to safely administer general anesthesia.

By offering various sedation options and adhering to strict safety standards, dentists help alleviate patients’ fears, making it easier for them to receive necessary care in a comfortable environment. Whether you experience mild anxiety or need more involved sedation, there are safe and effective solutions available to ensure your dental visits are as stress-free as possible.

At Let’s Smile Dental, we offer all of these services. Our team includes highly qualified and experienced pediatric dentists and a skilled anesthesiologist to provide these services to both children and adults, ensuring the highest level of care for every patient.

Orthodontists: Ali Ghatri, DDS – Manhal Eliliwi, DDS – Owais Naeem, DDS – John Ji, DMD
Pediatric Dentists: Abeer Zletni, DDS – Cindy Choi, DDS – Ashley Kato, DDS – Zeina Estephan, DDS – Kevin Do, DDS – Jackie Liu, DDS – Reham Alnajjar, DDS
Family & Cosmetic Dentists: Oscar Dominguez, DDS – Joseph Alwan, DDS
Oral Surgeons: Inja Niloy, DDS – Paul Park, DDS
Dental Anesthesiologist: Babak Razmazma, DDS