SEDATION DENTISTRY:
It has become very popular for dentists and practices to market sedation or sleep dentistry. Sedation Dentistry can mean different things to different dentist and patients. First, patients must understand that there are different levels of sedation and different levels of training that dentists go through. Dentists can provide oral sedation, intravenous sedation and finally general anesthesia.

ORAL SEDATION
The vast majority of dentists only provide oral sedation. Often times this is referred to as sedation with just a single pill. These oral medications can be effective in some individuals that are mildly anxious, however most phobic patients do not achieve the desired level of comfort. Oral sedation can actually make an uncooperative patient more uncooperative and combative.
Contrary to what may be claimed, patients are NOT ASLEEP when oral sedation is utilized. This should only be CONSCIOUS SEDATION. If a patient is asleep or not conscious with oral sedation, they are most probably overdosed and could be at risk for further complication, especially since only minimal patient monitoring is utilized during with oral sedation.
A dentist need only attend a weekend course to be able to utilize oral sedation in their practice.

I.V. SEDATION
A few dentists are able to provide IV, or intravenous sedation for their patients. IV sedation can provide a much better patient experience. Medications are administered through an intravenous line. Despite claims that a patient will be asleep, IV sedation is still considered CONSCIOUS SEDATION. Patients must realize that they will NOT BE ASLEEP. Patients are usually amnesic.
Dentists must undergo a 60 hour course and pass an oral test and on site inspection to receive a conscious sedation permit.

GENERAL ANESTHESIA
This is the only anesthetic modality where the patient can be considered COMPLETELY ASLEEP. Throughout the nation, only a very small number of dentists possess the training and knowledge to provide their patients with general anesthesia. Medications can be administered intravenously or through inhalational agents. Patients are unconscious, amnesic and stress free. Patients do not feel anything.
Dentists must undergo at least a one year residency in anesthesiology and pass an on site inspection.



Theo Batistas, DDSis a dentist providing dental procedures such as teeth whitening, dental implants, and porcelain veneers in Manassas Park. Theo Batistas, DDSis licensed as a general dentist in the state of VA.