Sedation Dentistry in Germantown, MD

Rosewood Dental provides sedation dentistry in Germantown, MD. Call 301-515-2466 to learn more or schedule your appointment.

Although modern dentistry is virtually pain-free, many patients of all ages have major dental anxiety. Those with dental phobias or certain special needs, as well as those facing highly complex or long-lasting procedures, can benefit from sedation dentistry. We offer two different options.

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a safe and effective mild sedation agent. You will inhale a carefully titrated blend of nitrogen and oxygen through a mask over your nose. Within minutes, you will start to feel light-headed, tingly, and slightly giddy. You may also experience heaviness in your arms and legs. You will be awake and able to respond to our instructions, but you will feel deeply relaxed and unafraid.

Nitrous oxide wears off in just a few minutes after the mask is removed, allowing you to safely drive home. This fast recovery time also makes it a great choice for those who do not enjoy feeling medicated, as you can always remove the mask during your procedure if you feel uncomfortable.

Conscious oral sedation is mild to moderate, depending on the specific medication and dosage prescribed. We will tell you exactly when to take the medication for maximum benefits. You will remain awake but relaxed and a bit groggy. Conscious oral sedation takes several hours to fully wear off, so you must bring someone to your appointment to drive you home. Do not drive or operate machinery until the day after your procedure.

We understand that dental sedation can be a big decision. We are happy to discuss your options with you and answer any questions you may have. If you believe that you would benefit from dental sedation, please don’t hesitate to ask us for a consultation.

Call 301-515-2466 to schedule your appointment.

Sedation dentistry describes any dental procedure that is performed with sedation. Many patients with dental anxiety or phobias benefit from sedation dentistry, as do patients who require extensive dental work.

Our practice uses nitrous oxide and conscious oral sedation, two safe, mild forms of sedation that have few risks or side effects.

Yes, sedation dentistry works. Sedation has helped hundreds of thousands of patients get the dental care they need and overcome serious dental phobias and anxiety. We offer different levels of sedation for different levels of anxiety, so even patients with a severe, life-long fear of going to the dentist can find relief.

Oral sedation helps you feel relaxed and calm during your procedure, but it doesn’t prevent you from feeling pain. For this reason, we use oral sedation in conjunction with local anesthetic, which numbs your tooth and the surrounding tissue to ensure your comfort.

The most common side effects of conscious sedation are headaches, sleepiness, lightheadedness, and nausea.

Yes, sedation is safer than general anesthesia. General anesthesia must be performed with an anesthesiologist and careful monitoring, as patients are not able to breathe on their own. With sedation, you remain fully conscious, so risks are minimal.

Conscious oral sedation can last up to 8 hours, depending on the medication and dosage prescribed.