What Is IV Dental Sedation?
Many people suffer from dental anxiety and this is the main reason why they avoid visiting the dentist. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures.
If you are a Rocklin, California resident, visit Sun-Park Dental for all your dental treatments and we will help you overcome your anxiety and fears.
What Is IV Sedation?
Intravenous sedation (IVS) refers to administering sedative drugs through your vein into the bloodstream during a medical procedure. It acts by calming you down and increasing cooperation while reducing anxiety or discomfort associated with dental treatments.
With IVS, you will remain awake during the procedure and be able to respond to verbal commands. The drugs used for IV sedation include benzodiazepines, propofol, ketamine, and dexmedetomidine.
What Are the Advantages of IV Sedation?
Deeper Level of Sedation
IV sedation induces a deeper level of sedation than other forms of sedation.
Fast-Acting
The intravenous administration of the sedatives allows the drugs to reach the brain faster and act more quickly, usually within a few seconds.
Easy Recovery
Recovery from IV sedation is typically faster compared to oral sedation.
Amnesic effect
Benzodiazepines in particular have a side effect of amnesia so you most likely will not even remember the procedure.
Minimal Side Effects
Since the dentist is able to regulate the amount of sedation that is administered, there are fewer chances of complications.
Preparation for IV Sedation
You should provide your complete medical history to the dentist prior to the dental procedure. The dentist will recommend you to wear comfortable clothing, avoid eating or drinking 6-8 hours before sedation, and stop taking certain medications.
During the dental procedure, the dentist will insert an IV in your arm and inject the drug through it. If you need any other medications such as pain medicine, anti-inflammatories, or steroids, you will usually receive these through your IV, too. The dentist will monitor your pulse, breathing, and blood pressure throughout the procedure to watch for any adverse reactions.
You should immediately feel relaxed and become unaware of any sights, smells, or sounds. After the procedure, you may feel slightly drowsy for several hours. You will need to avoid strenuous activity, unapproved medications, alcohol, or driving for at least 24 hours.
Intravenous sedation is a low-risk, safe sedation option for many patients, including those undergoing extensive procedures or those suffering from dental phobia.
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