Sedation Dentistry

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Dental phobia is a very real condition that discourages thousands of people each year from obtaining the oral care they need or desire. As board-certified sedation dentists, Dr. Deborah Klotz and Dr. Robert Schlossberg are committed to helping patients who feel anxious about visiting the dentist receive treatment in a state of complete relaxation with advanced sedation dentistry.

Bethesda Sedation Dentistry aims to make your dental experience comfortable, efficient, and entirely free of stress.

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What is Sedation Image

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry—also called sleep dentistry—refers to the use of sedative medicine designed to keep you in a calm and pain-free state as your dental care is performed. Depending on the type of sedation employed, you can remain awake or sleep peacefully throughout treatment, maximizing both comfort and efficiency.

Would Sedation Dentistry Be Beneficial for Me?

Sedation dentistry can be very helpful if:

  • You experience anxiety or fear about dental procedures, needles, or injections
  • You suffer from an extreme gag reflex
  • You are embarrassed about the appearance of your teeth
  • You have sensitive teeth
  • You do not respond well to local anesthesia
  • You are undergoing a very complex procedure
  • You have a disability or special needs
  • You have trouble sitting comfortably in the dental chair for long
  • Your treatment needs to be finished within a limited span of time
  • You have a sensitivity to the sights and sounds within a dental office

What Types of Sedation Are Available?

At Bethesda Sedation Dentistry, you can choose from three types of sedation: oral conscious sedation, IV sedation, and nitrous oxide. Each offers unique advantages based on your specific needs and desires.

  • Conscious Sedation IconOral Conscious SedationOral conscious sedation is delivered via a swallowable pill, resulting in complete relaxation. Most patients remain awake, though you will likely have minimal to no memory of treatment.
  • IV Sedation IconIV Sedation Injected directly into the bloodstream, intravenous (IV) sedation can help you reach a deeply calming state, often to the point that you sleep peacefully right through treatment. Like oral conscious sedation, you will have little to no recollection of your visit.
  • Nitrous Oxide IconNitrous Oxide Inhaled through a small rubber mask, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can help you relax while still remaining awake and coherent during treatment. It can be used independently or in combination with IV or oral sedation for optimal comfort.

At your initial appointment, Dr. Rob or Dr. Deb will carefully examine your medical and dental history and talk with you about any concerns you might have. Every patient is different, and we want to understand your unique situation—without judgment—so we can provide informed, customized advice about your sedation options. We will guide you through the entire process, thoroughly explain your sedation choices, and recommend the right treatment plan for your case.

Are There Any Side Effects from Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation Side Effects ImageThe most common side effects of sedation dentistry are grogginess and fatigue, both of which should gradually fade within the hours following treatment. In the event oral conscious sedation or IV sedation is utilized, a minor amnesic effect may also be experienced—but many patients actually consider this a benefit. Other side effects of sedation can include temporary dry mouth, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, and headaches, though these are rarely reported by our patients and should resolve relatively quickly if they do happen to occur.

Due to the potential side effects, Dr. Deb and Dr. Rob insist that all patients who receive oral conscious sedation or IV sedation arrange for a friend or family member to drive them to and from our office, as well as provide any necessary assistance after treatment. Additionally, our dentists recommend patients stay at home and rest until the sedation has worn off completely, which may take until the following day.

Both Dr. Rob and Dr. Deb are board certified in sedation dentistry, a distinction that signifies their extensive training, experience, and devotion to patient safety.

How Much Does Sedation Dentistry Cost?

Pricing for sedation dentistry depends on the sedation method used and the duration of time it is needed. To determine exact pricing, Dr. Rob or Dr. Deb will need to meet with you in person, at which point they can identify the most appropriate sedation technique and timing based on your specific needs and goals.

We never want cost to stand in the way of a comfortable dental experience, which is why our practice accepts payment through CareCredit® for anyone interested in financing options for sedation dentistry. With a number of plans to choose from, CareCredit® can help break treatment expenses into affordable monthly installments for virtually any budget.

Contact Our Practice

To learn more about sedation dentistry, we invite you to make your appointment today. We look forward to meeting you!