Dental anxiety can range from a little case of nerves before your visit with our dentists to a full-blown dental phobia. At Avanti Dentistry, we offer several options for sedation dentistry in Tysons Corner, Virginia. If anxiety is keeping you from your appointments with Dr. Farshad Farhoumand and associates, call (703) 952-0663 to learn more about how we can make your visit easier.
Many patients suffer from dental anxiety and fear. Our dentists and team offer sedation dentistry to help you feel more at ease and receive the treatments you need without unnecessary stress. Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help you feel relaxed, calm and comfortable during your treatment. There are several types of sedation available, and before providing you with any sedation treatment, our dentists will meet with you one-on-one to discuss your options and determine which type of sedation is right for you. During this initial meeting, we will review your oral health needs, medical history, treatment options and comfort level in the dental office. Depending on your needs, we may recommend anything from a mild form of sedation to help you relax to a deeper sedation option that will make you fall asleep during your treatment.
Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and we will monitor you closely throughout your appointment regardless of which type of sedation you receive. Our dentists may also provide you with instructions on how you can prepare to receive dental sedation and what you should do after your appointment. We may also request that you have someone available to drive you to and from our office to ensure your safety.
Tips For Dental Anxiety
Hi, I am Dr. Fotini Chrisopoulos a top Washingtonian Prosthodontist, and today I want to share with you a few tips about how I help my patients with their dental anxiety. First of all, when we come in the office, we listen to your needs and we communicate very clearly about what makes you be afraid of the dentist. Secondly, we use always a signal that you can always tell us about when you want to have a break. So, for example, you can raise your hand or you can tell us when you feel comfortable to start a treatment. In addition, we have several sedation options. A few of them could be just oral sedation, laughing gas, or even we work with an physiologist to put you asleep while you’re having dental treatment. We also have a lot of options of listening to your favorite music podcasts. While we are working on you, we just want to make sure that you’re comfortable before starting any treatment, understanding your options to book an appointment. You can visit the link on the bio and we’ll be happy to see you and help you with your dental needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
What types of sedation are available at a dental office, such as Avanti Dentistry?
Avanti Dentistry offers several sedation options tailored to each patient’s comfort level and procedure complexity. These include nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas), oral conscious sedation using prescribed medication, and IV sedation for deeper relaxation. Nitrous oxide provides mild, fast-acting relief and wears off quickly, while oral and IV sedation allow for a deeper sense of calm and may have a longer recovery time. Dr. Farhoumand will help determine the best choice based on your health history, anxiety level, and treatment needs.
Can I drive myself home after undergoing sedation dentistry?
It depends on the type of sedation used. If you only receive nitrous oxide, the effects wear off within minutes, and you can typically resume normal activities, including driving. However, oral and IV sedations produce longer-lasting drowsiness and slowed reflexes, so arranging for a friend or family member to accompany you and drive you home safely is essential. Always follow post-operative instructions provided by your dental team.
Will I feel any pain during the procedure with sedation?
Sedation dentistry is designed to reduce both anxiety and physical discomfort. While sedation itself doesn’t numb the treatment area, it is typically combined with local anesthetics to ensure that you remain pain-free throughout the procedure. Most patients report feeling relaxed and unaware of any discomfort during their visit. In many cases, patients have little to no memory of the procedure afterward, which helps alleviate future anxiety.
Is sedation dentistry safe for people with medical conditions or on medications?
Dr. Farhoumand performs a thorough medical review before administering any form of sedation. Patients with conditions such as sleep apnea, respiratory issues, or those taking certain medications may require special considerations or medical clearance. Safety is the top priority, and sedation is only used when appropriate for your overall health status. If you’re unsure whether sedation is right for you, a pre-treatment consultation will provide clarity.
How long does it take for oral sedation to kick in, and how will I feel?
Oral sedation typically begins to take effect 30 to 60 minutes after the medication is ingested. You’ll feel drowsy, calm, and less aware of your surroundings, but you’ll still be able to respond to verbal cues. Many patients describe the experience as dream-like or foggy. Some even doze off during the procedure without becoming fully unconscious. Because the effects can linger for several hours, a recovery period at home is recommended.
Can sedation dentistry be used for routine cleanings or only major procedures?
While sedation is often associated with complex or lengthy procedures, it can also be incredibly beneficial for routine visits like cleanings or exams, especially for patients with dental phobia, sensitive teeth, or a strong gag reflex. At Avanti Dentistry, sedation is used to make any dental appointment—big or small—a more positive and manageable experience. If anxiety has kept you from scheduling regular care, sedation might be a game-changer.
If you feel nervous about visiting the dentist, have had negative experiences at the dental office in the past, have difficulty getting numb or have a sensitive gag reflex, sedation dentistry could be an excellent option for you. Give us a call (703) 952-0663 today to learn more and schedule your consultation!
