Midlothian Dental Center has some of the most experienced sedation dentists in Richmond, VA. Sedation dentistry is a popular option in dental treatment today. Under light sedation, you will be conscious, but unaware of the treatment. This approach allows our dentists—all experienced and trusted members of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation—to complete what might normally take years of dental work in just one or two comfortable visits The sedative is carefully administered to last the duration of your visit, proportional to the extent of the dental care you require. After your procedure, you will wake up refreshed with little or no memory of the treatment. More importantly, you’ll be able to smile with confidence and pride.
The sedation treatment option is simple. You are given a small pill to take one hour prior to your dental appointment. The medication causes drowsiness so a companion must drive you to and from your appointment. By the time you arrive, you will be very drowsy. As soon as you arrive, a Midlothian Dental Center team member escorts you into a private room, covers you with thick, warm blankets and monitors your vital signs. A member of the staff will be with you at all times to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the entire procedure. When your treatment is completed, your companion will take you home. Once the sedation wears off, you will wake up refreshed.
Conscious sedation is a combination of medicines to help you relax (a sedative) and to block pain (an anesthetic) during a medical or dental procedure. You will probably stay awake but may not be able to speak. The sedative is carefully administered to last the duration of your visit, proportional to the extent of the dental care you require. Conscious sedation enables you to recover quickly and return to your everyday activities soon after your procedure.
Book an AppointmentIntravenous (IV) Sedation is a compound of chemicals that are carefully measured in advance, and administered through an IV in the hand or arm. You’ll lay back comfortably in the chair, and once the sedation is administered you’ll feel intense relaxation. Keep in mind that you are NOT unconscious, but rather in a deep state of relaxation. You’ll be able to respond to your dentist and our nurse anesthetist, but will feel no pain and have no memory of the procedure.
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View ResourcesSedation dentistry helps patients feel relaxed, calm, and safe during their dental visits—especially if they experience anxiety or fear. Whether it’s a simple cleaning or a more involved procedure, we tailor the level of sedation to your needs so you can get the care you deserve comfortably.
If you’ve been avoiding dental visits due to fear, past trauma, a strong gag reflex, or medical anxiety—sedation dentistry may be life-changing. We’d love to talk with you in a no-pressure setting and explore your options together.
At Midlothian Dental Center, we offer multiple options so you can rest easy: Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) – a light, fast-acting option for mild anxiety. Oral sedation – a prescribed pill taken before your visit for deeper relaxation. IV sedation – for patients who prefer to “sleep” through the appointment. Not sure which is right for you? We’ll walk through it together during your consultation.
Yes—extremely safe. At Midlothian Dental Center, your health and comfort are our top priorities. All sedation is administered and monitored by trained professionals, and we review your full medical history before any treatment.
It varies based on the type of sedation and length of treatment. We’ll give you transparent pricing upfront and talk through all options—including flexible payment plans to help make it doable.
Not at all. Many of our patients choose sedation for cleanings, fillings, or cosmetic work—especially if they’ve had bad experiences in the past or simply feel overwhelmed or fearful. There’s no judgment here. Your comfort matters no matter the reason.
You’re not alone—and you won’t be judged. Many of our patients in Midlothian and across Richmond come to us after years of putting off care. We’re here to help you start fresh with compassion, patience, and a plan that honors your experience.
That depends on the level of sedation you choose. With laughing gas or oral sedation, you'll remain awake but deeply relaxed. With IV sedation, you may not remember much of the procedure at all. Our goal is to help you feel completely at ease, whatever that looks like for you.
Laughing gas wears off within minutes—you can even drive yourself home. Oral or IV sedation takes longer to wear off, and you’ll need a trusted adult to drive you home and monitor you for a few hours. We’ll give you clear aftercare instructions so you know what to expect.
