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 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 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 can make your visit to the dentist’s office more comfortable and less stressful. 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.