Sedation Dentistry in Oakton, VA

Sedation dentistry promotes calmness and comfort during dental treatment, but you can still breathe on your own and respond to simple instructions. Depending on the type used, you may feel lightly relaxed or very drowsy.

General anesthesia is much deeper — you are fully unconscious and unable to respond. It typically requires advanced monitoring and is usually performed in a hospital or surgical setting. For most dental visits, sedation is a safer, simpler option than full anesthesia.

Most patients are awake during sedation dentistry, but they feel very relaxed and unconcerned about what’s happening. With nitrous oxide, you stay fully conscious and aware, just calmer. With oral sedation, you may become very drowsy and may even drift in and out of light sleep, but you can still respond if the dentist asks you to turn your head or open wider. You won’t be “knocked out,” but you’ll likely feel deeply at ease.

It depends on the type of sedation and how your body responds. With nitrous oxide, most patients remember their visit, but often feel less bothered by it. With oral sedation, many patients remember very little, especially if they become very sleepy. Some people describe it as the appointment going by quickly or feeling “foggy” afterward. Even if you remember parts of the visit, you’re usually much less aware of time, sounds, or anxiety triggers.

The night before your appointment, plan for a calm, low-stress evening and get a full night of rest. If you’re receiving oral sedation, you’ll need someone trustworthy to drive you home and stay with you afterward. Set aside comfortable clothes for the next day, and avoid alcohol or recreational substances. Be ready to share a full list of medications and health conditions. Follow any specific instructions from the dental team carefully.

In many cases, you’ll be asked not to eat for several hours before oral sedation, and sometimes to avoid drinking anything other than small sips of water. This helps reduce the chance of nausea and keeps you safe during treatment. However, instructions may vary depending on your medical history and the specific medication you are taking. The best approach is to follow your dentist’s guidelines closely and call the office ahead of time if you’re unsure.

At Softouch Dental Care, we are known for our patience and compassion. We work hard to help you relax from the moment you arrive at our office. Sometimes, a person needs more local anesthetic after their dental work has started. If you feel any sensitivity at all, Dr. Chung will stop immediately and provide additional medication.