IV Sedation For Restorative Dental Procedures: Q & A

Sedation has become a popular way to help dental patients relax as they receive their dental treatment. In restorative dentistry, it is important to make sure that patients are not too afraid to receive the dental care that they need. One of the most popular types of sedation used for restorative dentistry is IV sedation. Here are a few questions and answers about it:

How is IV sedation administered?

"IV" is an acronym for intravenous. Thus, this type of sedation is administered through a needle that has been inserted into a vein in your arm. 

Are you asleep during IV sedation?

IV sedation is not the same as general anesthesia. With IV sedation, you remain conscious as you receive dental care. Nevertheless, instead of being nervous and afraid, you become relaxed and free of anxiety.

Even though you are not unconscious, you may still believe that you slept throughout the restorative dental procedure. This lack of memory is caused by the anti-anxiety medicine that you receive through the IV.

What types of restorative dental procedures use IV sedation?

IV sedation is typically used for any treatment that requires oral surgery. However, intravenous sedation can also be used other dental procedures.

Since many oral surgical procedures take a while to complete, without sedation your anxiety may build over the course of the treatment. Surgical procedures, such as the placement of a dental implant, periodontal surgery or the surgical extraction of a wisdom tooth are good examples of treatments for which IV sedation may be beneficial.

In addition, the sedation may be used for any patient who has a moderate to severe case of dental fear. 

How long does it take to fully recover dental IV sedation?

Dental IV sedation patients may require up to 24 hours to recover fully.

What precautions are normally taken when dental IV sedation is administered?

The patient is usually monitored closely throughout the procedure. Certain vital signs, such as respiratory rate, blood pressure, pulse rate and blood oxygen levels are closely observed.

If your dentist has advised that you need a restorative procedure in the near future, you may be feeling nervous and concerned, especially if you usually suffer from dental anxiety. There are different forms of sedation that your dentist may use to calm you. Contact your dentist today to discuss your sedation needs and find out whether or not IV sedation is right for you. Consider the professionals at Alliance Family Dental for your dental needs.