Intravenous Sedation

Most people are not really fond of dental procedures and avoid going to a dentist due to fear and anxiety. But putting off dental visits can increase the possibilities of tooth loss, severe dental infections, or even oral cancer. Fortunately, dentists are now using dental sedation techniques, which are aimed at helping patients undertake essential dental care without the associated pain and anxiety.

What is Intravenous Sedation (IV)?

During your dental treatments, an anti-anxiety drug is administered through the blood, known as Intravenous (IV) sedation. It is also sometimes called sleep or twilight sedation. However, the sedative helps you to feel calm and relaxed rather than putting you to sleep. But you will still be in a position to respond to the dentist’s queries, though the other details of your procedure will be vague once the sedative wears off.

How Does IV Sedation Work?

The dentist will insert a thin needle into the vein of your arm or hand. The needle is then connected to an intravenous tube that will deliver the sedative directly into the bloodstream. If the patient fears the needles, a numbing cream may be applied to the area that the needle will prick. While some patients may be given the sedation for the entire duration of the procedure, the drug is administered and the needle removed for others.

The same degree of conscious sedation can be achieved in both situations. Your doctor will constantly monitor the oxygen levels and your pulse to ensure that you do not develop an adverse reaction to the sedative. The blood pressure will also be recorded before and after the procedure. On completion of the procedure, you might feel a little dizzy. Hence it is recommended to have a family member or friend accompany you for the dental procedure.

What Are The Benefits of Intravenous Sedation?

Intravenous Sedation is more beneficial when compared to other forms of sedation dentistry because:

• The effects of the sedative given through the bloodstream can be achieved in a shorter period.
• Intravenous (IV) sedation is suitable for patients with a gag reflex.
• Intravenous sedation does not interfere with the other body processes but only reduces your ability to feel pain.
• The dentist can perform multiple procedures in just one dental visit. As a result, the fear and anxiety associated with dental visits are reduced and also cut down on dental care costs.
• The patient will completely forget about what happened during the procedure.
• There is minor discomfort after the procedure due to the fewer side effects when compared to other sedation methods such as general anesthesia.

Call us at (303) 494-0101 or schedule an online appointment to know more about Intravenous Sedation. We'll be happy to guide you further.