As sedation dentistry experts, we are keenly aware that many patients suffer from nervousness during dental visits. Some may even be too 
anxious to schedule an appointment. Sedation dentistry creates a relaxed state of mind for those who struggle with dental fear. Oral sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may also be appropriate if a patient has a strong gag reflex or needs to complete a lengthy procedure in one appointment. With sedation dentistry, Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, and Dr. Klotz provide soothing general, cosmetic, or restorative dentistry appointments to Bethesda area patients.
Our sedation options include:
Nitrous Oxide
This form of sedation, also known as “laughing gas,” is a very effective means of enhancing comfort and relieving anxiety for patients of any age. If your dentist decides that nitrous oxide is the best sedation option for you, he or she will administer the gas that you will inhale through a face mask. Soon after we begin administering the gas, you will feel very relaxed. Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, or Dr. Klotz can begin treatment while you remain completely comfortable in the dental chair. The effects of nitrous oxide will subside very quickly once the mask is removed, so if nitrous oxide is the only form of sedation you receive, you will be able to drive yourself home following treatment.
Oral sedation
If oral sedation is appropriate for your situation, one of our dentists can select an appropriate sedative medication in pill form. You will take the prescribed pill at a pre-determined time before your appointment, and by the time of your visit to our office, you will be completely at ease. The sedative drugs we prescribe are very safe and widely-prescribed to alleviate anxiety and help patients relax. Though oral sedation will not “put you under,” as IV sedation does, some patients become so relaxed they drift off into a restful sleep while our dentists perform their dental work.
IV Sedation
This type of sedation is most often used for complex procedures or oral surgeries, but can also be appropriate in situations where patients suffer from severe anxiety. We will thoroughly evaluate your medical background, and may even check with your MD, to ensure that IV sedation will be safe for you. The level of sedation we administer will correlate to your needs, and one of our team members will continuously monitor your vital signs during treatment.
There’s no need to dread dental work. Our caring dental professionals and customized sedation options will ensure that you experience soothing visits with a minimum of stress. Call our Bethesda office today to schedule your sedation dentistry consultation. Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, Dr. Klotz and our team proudly serve residents of Bethesda, Potomac, Rockville, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and beyond.
about dental visits. Patients who have a sensitive gag reflex, TMJ disorder, or other roadblocks to proper oral healthcare can also benefit from sedation. Through this series, you’ll learn what types of sedation we offer and which patients may be the best candidates for each type. In this first post, we’ll address IV sedation.