Sedation Dentistry

Think it's impossible to relax at the dentist's office? Reliable intravenous (IV) sedation techniques let you rest comfortably while receiving the dental care you need and want. If fear of the dentist keeps you from necessary treatment, ask us about IV sedation to ease you through any procedure. Dr. Atherton is one of only a handful of general dentists in Virginia who are certified to administer IV sedation and she is offering you this peaceful dental option. Discover our soothing, comfortable approach to dental care today!

While mostly used for oral surgeries or time-consuming procedures, IV sedation can alleviate severe anxiety and phobias associated with dentists, needles, and drills to make any dental procedure pleasant. In addition, patients with sensitive gag reflexes those that find it hard to keep their mouths open for long periods of time often benefit from IV sedation. We will consult with you to determine your anxiety level and decide whether IV sedation is safe for you, based on medical history and present health conditions.

The sedative dosage we administer correlates to the intensity of your anxiety or discomfort. IV sedation allows us unprecedented control over relaxation levels, so we can tailor the sedation to your specific needs. Depending on the amount of sedative you receive, you will feel extremely relaxed, drowsy, or you may fall asleep completely. Typically, patients remain conscious and can respond to questions but do not experience extreme nervousness or discomfort, remembering little about the appointment afterwards.

As with any procedure we perform, your physical safety remains our top concern. To prepare for your IV sedation appointment, do not eat or drink anything for six hours prior to your procedure, except for prescription medications, unless advised otherwise. While you are under sedation, we closely monitor blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate and ECG readings. After your dental work, we stop the IV and let you rest comfortably for 15 to 20 minutes before you leave our office. If necessary, we prescribe pain management medication after your visit, particularly after an oral surgery. You must arrange to have a responsible adult drive you home from your appointment and remain with you until drowsiness wears off. You should be able to resume normal activities the day after the appointment.

We understand your fear about visiting the dentist, as well as your desire for healthy, beautiful teeth. We can help you achieve the smile of your dreams with the compassionate care you deserve. Ask us is right for you!