Relaxing Dental Experiences
For many individuals, the thought of visiting the dentist can evoke feelings of anxiety, transforming routine appointments into daunting experiences. To support patients in overcoming these feelings, Dr. Scott McQuiston provides oral sedation, allowing those who feel nervous to undergo essential dental treatments while in a tranquil state. This method keeps you awake, yet serene and at ease throughout your visit.

Advantages of Opting for Oral Sedation
Oral sedation presents numerous benefits, particularly for those battling dental fear or needing extensive procedures. Unlike IV sedation, this approach requires simply taking a prescribed pill prior to your appointment. This medication alleviates anxiety while enabling you to follow Dr. Scott McQuiston‘s instructions during the procedure. Most individuals report minimal to no recollection of their treatment, making subsequent visits feel less daunting.
- No needles or intravenous lines are necessary.
- Mitigates sensitivity of the gag reflex.
- Facilitates multiple procedures to be completed in a single visit.
- Appropriate for patients with special needs.
What to Anticipate During Your Oral Sedation Appointment
Before your scheduled visit, our dentist will assess your medical history and current medications to ascertain the suitable level of sedation. You will be instructed to take the prescribed medication about one hour before arriving. It’s essential that a responsible adult accompanies you to and from your appointment, as the effects can linger for several hours. Throughout your treatment, our dedicated team will monitor your vital signs while you relax comfortably in the dental chair.
Conquer dental anxiety with safe oral sedation in Alexandria, Virginia. Our dentist will ensure you feel at ease during your upcoming dental appointment at McQuiston Dental. Call 703-354-0111 for further information.

Common Questions Regarding Oral Sedation
What is the cost of oral sedation at dental clinics?
The expense of oral sedation varies based on the type of medication prescribed and the duration of the appointment. We accept major credit cards, CareCredit and Cherry to make dental care accessible for families.
What is the procedure for receiving oral sedation during dental treatments?
Patients are required to ingest the prescribed medication one hour before their appointment. Throughout the treatment, our dentist will monitor your comfort level, ensuring you remain aware yet deeply relaxed as procedures are performed.
How does oral sedation stack up against other sedation methods for dental anxiety?
Oral sedation induces a deeper state of relaxation compared to nitrous oxide without the need for an IV. This technique effectively addresses moderate anxiety while allowing patients to respond to verbal cues throughout the treatment process.