Dental IV Sedation. What Should You Expect?

Dental IV Sedation. What Should You Expect

Many people feel anxious or scared when they visit the dentist’s office. If you’re one of them, IV sedation might make your visit more comfortable. IV sedation is the most potent type of dental sedation, and there are a lot of misunderstandings about it.

In this article, we will explain what IV sedation is, how it works, what you should expect, and how to prepare for your appointment.

What is IV sedation?

IV sedation, or intravenous sedation, is a potent type of dental sedation that delivers medication directly into your bloodstream. It puts you into a state of deep relaxation, where you are conscious, but are not able to feel any discomfort.

For patients who require extensive or complicated dental treatments, IV sedation dentistry in Victoria can be a valuable solution. Dental procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction, root canal treatment, and gum grafting often require invasive work that can be quite uncomfortable for the patient.

The use of IV sedation helps to alleviate any pain or discomfort, making the procedure easier to undergo. Additionally, IV sedation dentistry in Victoria can also be beneficial for patients who suffer from severe dental anxiety or phobia.

This anxiety can prevent some patients from seeking the treatment they need, resulting in further complications down the line. With the use of IV sedation, patients can feel more comfortable and relaxed during any dental appointment, including regular hygiene visits. Overall, IV sedation is a useful tool for dentists to provide their patients with a more comfortable and stress-free experience.

How does IV sedation work?

During IV sedation, a thin needle will be inserted into your vein, usually in your arm or hand. The medication will be delivered through the needle, which will put you into a deep state of relaxation.

You will still be able to breathe on your own, and you will be conscious during the procedure. However, you will not remember the procedure, and you will not feel any pain or discomfort.

What should you expect during IV sedation?

Before the procedure, one of our dentists will ask you to refrain from eating or drinking anything for a few hours before your appointment. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home, as the effects of IV sedation can last for several hours.

During the procedure, you will be closely monitored by your dentist. We will monitor your vital signs, such as your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. We will also make sure that you are breathing properly and that you are not feeling any pain.

After the procedure, you will need to rest for a while, and you should not drive or operate any machinery until the effects of the sedation have worn off.

How can you prepare for IV sedation?

Before your appointment, it’s a good idea to speak with your dentist about your concerns and your medical history. You should also ask them about any potential side effects or risks associated with IV sedation.

To Wrap Things Up…

IV sedation dentistry in Victoria, BC is a safe, comfortable option to reduce anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures. However, it’s essential to understand what it is, how it works, what you should expect, and how to prepare for it.

If you have any concerns or questions about IV sedation or any other dental sedation, speak with one of Pacifica dentists. We will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your dental treatment.

If you would like to read more for yourself about IV sedation,
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/policies-for-government/bcea-policy-and-procedure-manual/health-supplements-and-programs/dental-and-orthodontic-services

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

For more information, contact Pacifica Dental today!

Visit: https://pacificadental.ca/contact/

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog. The Team at Pacifica Dental.

A Worry-Free Visit With Dental Sedation

Many people don’t look forward to going to the dentist. Are you, or someone you love, one of the 15% of people who experience dread when it comes to their appointment at their dentist in Victoria? Dental sedation may help.

Dental fear can be due to previous bad experiences, challenging developmental or anxiety disorders, an intellectual disability, or simply fear of the unknown. No matter the cause, at Pacifica Dental, our caring and compassionate team is extremely dedicated to ensuring you get the care you want and need… and we understand that for many, dental anxiety or fear is not something you can “talk down.” That’s why dental sedation has proven so successful.

With sedation, we help you sit back, relax, and sometimes even forget you’re at the dentist at all. Safe for children and adults, it’s an extremely effective way to dispel fear.

Here are sedation options and anxiety-dispelling services that we’re pleased to provide you and your family:

  • Anxiety-releasing Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
    • This colorless gas effectively reduces pain and anxiety, and sometimes, patients feel a euphoric effect. To administer laughing gas, we place a comfortable mask over your nose. You’ll feel the effect quickly and, once the mask is removed, its effects wear off quickly.
  • Simple & effective oral sedation
    • Often called conscious sedation, oral sedation is a pill that is taken in advance of your appointment to produce a calming effect. It minimizes fear and reduces memory of the dental care you receive. You’ll need someone to bring you to your dental appointment and take you home.
  • IV sedation
    • Usually used for patients who are extremely nervous, IV sedation is administered intravenously (through a vein in your arm). With special certification, we’ll take excellent care of you. IV sedation works quickly and you won’t recall your dental care – you’ll be very groggy and need a ride home.

24-hour emergency access

Accidents happen. Restorations break. Because we never want you to suffer in pain or fear long-term damage, we have 24-hour emergency service. If you are experiencing pain, lose a tooth due to an accident, or if a filling falls out and leaves a sharp edge, we’re ready to provide gentle emergency dental care for you at our Victoria dental office. Call us right away – we’ll fit you in.

Long-time compassionate team

With years of training, dentistry experience, and working closely with our patients to achieve their smile goals, all of us at Pacifica Dental are passionate about our individual roles. From the moment you walk through our front door and are greeted by our friendly reception team, to the time treatment is completed, you’ll be in good hands every step of the way!

We Are Here For You

Since 2004, we’ve worked hard to earn the trust of our patients and we treat everyone like close friends and family. When you come to us for your dental care, we will always ensure you’re comfortable and will listen to your concerns… because we know just how much a pleasant, attentive, anxiety-free experience means to you.

If you’re feeling anxious about your upcoming visit or simply want to get a closer look at our practice before making the decision to gift yourself with excellent oral health, we invite you to book a full practice tour. Come find out which level of dental sedation is medically right for you, meet our caring team, and discover our compassionate approach to dentistry! We’ll show you exactly why your trip to the dentist will be stress-free and one you can look forward to! Call today!

Yours in excellent dental health,

Drs. Cristina and Bogdan Coca, dentists in Victoria, BC