Good Teeth: They Don't Have to Be in Your Genes

Do you have an upcoming dental procedure that you are feeling anxious about? It could be from the potential discomfort that you experience during the procedure or a general fear of going to the dentist. Thankfully, there are forms of sedation that can help you get through your dental procedure. Here are some questions you likely have about intravenous sedation, commonly referred to as IV sedation. 

What Is IV Sedation?

IV sedation is when you are given a medication through your bloodstream that makes you feel more relaxed and at ease during the procedure. IV sedation can put you to sleep so that you do not remember a thing as well, which can help those people with big fears of going to the dentist. 

However, most patients are still awake when using IV sedation. They are able to respond to questions that the dentist has, let others know if they feel uncomfortable, and do things of that nature. While you may not remember anything after the procedure is done, you will be conscious during the sedation process.

How Does A Patient Receive IV Sedation?

IV sedation does require inserting a needle into a vein so that the medicine can be put directly into your bloodstream. If you also have a fear of needles, oral medication can be taken before the IV sedation is applied to help you feel more relaxed about the process. Once the medication reaches the bloodstream you will quickly feel as if you are in a relaxed state. It can be very surprising how fast IV sedation can work. 

Will You Feel Discomfort? 

The dentist will not only use IV sedation for your dental procedure. Your mouth will also be numbed so that you do not feel anything. Patients are able to communicate if they feel any pain or discomfort, which will signal to the dentist that they need to make adjustments so that the experience is pain-free. For example, they may need to apply more numbing medication to the area that is being worked on.

What Happens After The Procedure?

Once the IV sedation ends after the procedure is over, you will be moved to a recovery area while the IV sedation wears off. Once it is verified that you are feeling okay from the sedation and are completely conscious, you will be discharged from the dental office. However, it is advised that you do not drive yourself to and from the dental office, and have someone else help you. 

If you have questions about IV sedated dental treatment, reach out to your dentist.