Sedation Dentistry Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Sedation Dentistry Washington DC & Alexandria VA
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to providing our patients with the care they need in a manner that makes them as comfortable as possible. We understand that going to the dentist can be an anxiety provoking experience, which is why we offer a comprehensive range of sedation options. Sedation dentistry helps patients reach a level of calm and relaxation that they would otherwise not be able to. In some cases, sedation dentistry can mean the difference between patients seeking or not seeking necessary treatment.
Sedation dentistry is especially effective for patients who have the following:
- Anxiety disorder
- Dental Phobia
- Needle Phobia
- Sensitive Gag Reflex
- Sensitive Teeth
- Difficulty Achieving Numbness
- Complex procedure
- Autism
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Difficulty Achieving Numbness
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty trained periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky and Dr. Antara Daru have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about our dental sedation options, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.
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Dr. Alkakhan
Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.
Dr. Daru
In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.
Dr. Fields
Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.
Dr. Gupta
Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.
Dr. Zalewsky
Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.
Sedation Dentistry Types
There are four primary methods of administration of dental sedation. Which method is right for you will depend upon your overall health, the type of procedure being performed, and what level of relaxation is necessary for you to achieve optimal comfort during your procedure. The most common types of dental sedation include the following:
- Oral Sedation: Oral sedation is administered in the form of a pill, typically one or two hours before your procedure is performed. The most common type of oral medication prescribed are benzodiazepines. Although patients who are given oral sedation will be awake and aware throughout their procedure, the sedative will create a greater sense of calm and reduce the sensory impact of the sounds, smells, and sights of the dental office. In some cases, patients will become so relaxed they will actually fall asleep during the procedure.
- Nitrous Oxide: Commonly referred to as laughing gas, Nitrous Oxide is a commonly used sedative that is administered as a gas. Patients can have a wide variety of sensations associated with Nitrous Oxide, including increased comfort, a tingling sensation, altered sense of time, or a tranquilizing effect.
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation: IV sedation is administered directly into the vein. IV sedation is the least commonly used form of sedation, but for patients who have severe dental phobia or who are scheduled to have an intensive or invasive procedure, IV sedation may be the best option to ensure they remain relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure.
Levels of Sedation
In addition to different methods of administration, there are a range of potencies of dental sedation:
- Mild Sedation: This level of sedation is typically given to patients looking for assistance in reducing anxiety related to their procedure. Depending upon the procedure being performed, this level of sedation may also significantly reduce or potentially eliminate the pain associated with the procedure.
- Medium Sedation: This level of sedation is typically provided to patients having a procedure that is more invasive or intensive. Medium level sedatives will put patients in a deeper state of relaxation, but will generally allow them to still be aware of what is happening and respond to commands or communicate if necessary. Receiving this level of sedation will mean that someone else will have to drive you home following your procedure.
- Heavy Sedation: Patients scheduled for extremely intensive or invasive procedures, or who suffer from extreme dental phobia, may be candidates for heavy sedation. Although heavy sedation is typically considered a last resort, there are instances when this level of sedation is the patients best option. Heavy sedation often results in the patient being unaware of what is happening during the procedure and will not have any recollection of the procedure after it is over. This level of sedation will also require that someone else drive you home following the procedure.
Sedation Dentistry Cost
The cost of dental sedation will depend on what kind of sedation you receive, and does not include the cost of the procedure being performed. It is important to be aware that not all insurance companies will cover the cost of dental sedation.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that money is not a deterrent to our patients receiving the optimal dental health care they deserve. For this reason, we offer a range of payment options regardless of what type of treatment you are having, which our staff will be happy to explain and assist with. Our office insurance coordinators work with other insurance companies to assist patients with their claims.
For your convenience, Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry accepts cash, check, debit and credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and Discover). Our clinic also accepts GreenSky Patient Solutions, a financing option for procedures and treatments not typically covered by insurance, or when insurance does not cover the entire cost. We are happy to provide an application in our office, you can find out more information about this service at https://www.greensky.com/patient-faq/.
Providing you with Optimal Care
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are proud to provide optimal care for patients in the Washington D.C. and Alexandria, VA area, and are dedicated to collaborating with your dentist to provide you with the customized treatment you deserve. In addition to having state-of-the-art equipment, we are also committed to creating a peaceful and relaxing environment, with amenities such as personal movie screens, neck pillows, and soft blankets available regardless of what procedure you are having performed.
To schedule your appointment, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a bright and healthy smile!