How Does IV Sedation Work?

IV sedation dentistry is a proven technique for managing dental anxiety, providing comfort, or during lengthy treatments. It can make dental treatment possible when you’re afraid of visiting the dentist, have an extreme fear of needles, or have other special needs.  

What Is IV Sedation Dentistry?

IV sedation dentistry is a treatment that helps you feel comfortable during dental procedures. Also known as conscious sedation, IV sedation dentistry uses a moderate sedative to keep you awake but help you relax.

IV sedation is one of a few forms of conscious sedation typically used in dentistry. Two others include:

• Nitrous oxide gas or oxygen, sometimes called laughing gas

• Oral medication

The type of sedation you receive depends on your individual needs and other factors, like your fear or anxiety of dental work, your health history, and the length of the procedure. Your dentist will determine the best option for you during a consultation, confirm your medications, and plan the sedation.  

How Does IV Sedation Dentistry Work?

IV sedation delivers medications directly into your bloodstream through an IV needle. The medication works quickly and can last up to two hours, making it ideal for longer or more involved procedures.  

You will be awake during your sedation, able to breathe on your own, and responsive to voice and touch, but the medications cause short-term memory loss. This effect is sometimes called a “twilight sleep”. You may feel as though you fell asleep and have no memory of your procedure when sedation wears off.

The treatment is safe and effective. Your dentist monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing throughout the sedation and adjusts the medication if necessary. Most IV sedatives don’t relieve pain, so your dentist will also administer pain medications.  

Benefits of IV Sedation Dentistry

IV sedation dentistry is safe and effective and used in select situations, including severe anxiety, lengthy treatments, or to prevent medical complications.  

Dental Anxiety Management

Anxiety is the most common reason you might receive IV sedation. For some people, dental anxiety is so severe that it interferes with treatment. Rather than leave oral health issues to worsen and cause further discomfort, your dentist may recommend IV sedation to help keep you calm and relaxed.

IV sedation may also be an option for children who need extensive treatments, which may help prevent dental fear and anxiety in the future. It may also help if you have a medical condition that worsens with stress, such as epilepsy or high blood pressure.

Comfort During Treatment

Some patients struggle to tolerate dental treatments. People with special needs, such as movement disorders or behavioral and cognitive differences, may have difficulty sitting still, letting the dentist work in their mouth, or holding their mouth open for long periods. IV sedation can make treatment easier and more comfortable, preventing cavities or other dental concerns from advancing.  

Prevents Medical Complications

General anesthesia renders you unconscious, which means you may need a ventilator to help with breathing. IV sedation is different. You are awake and able to breathe independently, significantly lowering the risk of breathing problems and making in-office treatment possible.  

IV Sedation with Your Dentist in Rapid City

At Loftus Dental, we believe seeing your dentist should be a relaxing experience, whether it’s a cavity or root canal therapy. We prioritize your comfort and deliver gentle treatment with compassion, opting for techniques like IV sedation where necessary. For personalized, comprehensive care, request an appointment to set up your first visit.

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