Experience relaxed, comfortable dental care with sedation dentistry in Sterling, VA! At E. Richard Hughes, DDS, we understand dental anxiety affects millions of Americans, preventing many from seeking necessary dental care. When dental fear and nervousness lead to avoidance, it can contribute to the development or worsening of oral health issues.
At Dr. E. Richard Hughes's practice in Sterling, VA, we understand that dental anxiety is real. That's why we offer sedation dentistry to help our patients feel calm and comfortable during their treatments.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Dental sedation can be beneficial for patients who:
- Experience dental fear or anxiety
- Are undergoing lengthy or complex procedures
- Have difficulty remaining still during treatment
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
- Require multiple treatments in one visit
Our Sedation Dentistry Methods
Dr. Hughes offers two primary types of sedation:
Laughing Gas
Inhaled through a small mask, nitrous oxide provides a gentle sense of relaxation and calm. Effects can include a feeling of warmth, tingling in the extremities, and a sense of "floating." Laughing gas sedation wears off quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home after your appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For those seeking a deeper level of relaxation, oral conscious sedation involves taking medication prior to your appointment. You may experience drowsiness or even fall asleep during treatment. As this medication can affect your motor skills and memory, you will need to arrange for transportation to and from your visit to our Sterling dental office.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you experience dental anxiety or are considering sedation for your upcoming treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hughes. We'll discuss your concerns and help you determine if sedation is the right addition to your treatment experience!
