Enjoy Relaxed Dental Treatments with Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Ballston Dental Care understands visiting a dentist can be a nerve-wracking experience. Because we offer one-on-one care, we can tell when you are nervous about your treatment. We never want this fear to prevent you from getting the dental care you deserve. Instead of telling you, “It’s all in the head,” Dr. David Matney offers practical solutions to overcome your fears. Our nitrous oxide sedation in Arlington, Virginia, ensures dental-phobic patients receive the necessary dental care while relaxed and worry-free.
Why do I have dental fear?
While many people are apprehensive about dental visits, others avoid going to the dentist altogether. Do you know what this means? With routine cleanings and check-ups pushed aside, this compounds minor dental issues, and soon, you could be dealing with advanced gum disease and decay, not to mention the prolonged discomfort. The earlier dental fear is overcome, the better for your oral health.
So, why are you scared of the dentist? Possible causes include.
- Fear of needles
- Past traumatic experiences, especially during childhood
- Low pain tolerance
- A strong gag reflex
- Self-consciousness about the state of your oral health
- Fear of losing control
- Viewing your mouth as a personal space
Dental fear affects millions of children and adults, but we can break the cycle. Our compassionate team is experienced and has treated numerous dental-phobic patients. When you visit us, you can be confident knowing your dental experience will be pleasant from start to finish.
How does nitrous oxide sedation work?
Have you been avoiding routine treatments, even simple cleanings? Do you experience sweaty palms or a racy heart at the thought of a dentist? These are signs of dental anxiety, but nitrous oxide sedation can help.
Nitrous oxide, or happy gas, is administered by inhaling the gas through a small mask on your nose. Its effects occur almost immediately and remain throughout your treatment as long as the mask is intact. Inhalation sedation makes you feel completely at ease while you are conscious and aware.
After treatment, we’ll give you oxygen to clear out any lingering nitrous oxide. Recovery is almost instant, which allows you to resume your everyday activities immediately from our office. Unlike other sedation options, you’ll be able to drive yourself home.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry has low risks, especially when administered by qualified personnel. Although nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedation options, we’ll still assess your candidacy with a health screen. Additionally, we’ll continuously monitor you during treatment.
The side effects of nitrous oxide are also minimal—in fact, none for many patients. A mild headache, hiccups, and a dry mouth can occur, but these clear up quickly and aren’t a cause for concern.
Want to learn more?
Do you suspect you have dental fear and want to discover more about sedation dentistry? Please get in touch with us today—call (703) 229-8565 or set up an online appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal oral wellness.
