IV Sedation

Dental anxiety creates a huge hindrance in taking care of one's oral health. Dental phobia makes a person avoid dental visits that increase the risk of major oral problems. Fortunately, dentists now offer various sedation techniques to help patients feel relaxed on the dentist's chair.

What Is IV Sedation?

IV (intravenous) sedation is a technique in which we administer an anti-anxiety drug directly into the patient's vein during a dental procedure. This eliminates fear and pain, making you feel more relaxed and at peace. We recommend this form of sedation when you are undergoing relatively complex procedures such as root canal, implant placement, and extractions. You will be conscious during the procedure and will be able to respond to verbal commands. However, you will not remember much of the procedure after it is completed.

How Does IV Sedation Work?

You must completely disclose your medical health conditions to us before we begin with the sedation so that necessary adjustments and precautions can be taken. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes, bring someone to pick you up after your appointment, avoid eating or drinking six to eight hours before the procedure, and stop taking certain medications.

We will then numb the area where the sedative will be administered and insert a very thin needle into your vein, which will be connected to a tube through which the drug will enter. This needle stays in for the entire dental procedure, and any additional medication will be given to you through your IV. We will monitor your breathing, pulse, and blood pressure throughout the procedure to watch for any adverse reactions.

After IV sedation, you might feel drowsy for a couple of hours. The person you have brought along with you will collect any post-procedure instructions and take you home. We generally advise you to avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours and also avoid unapproved medicines or alcohol.

Are You a Suitable Candidate for IV Sedation?

We usually recommend IV sedation to patients who:

• Undergo dental procedures like extractions, root canal, etc.
• Have to undergo various and lengthy procedures at once
• Have moderate to high anxiety levels
• Have a strong gag reflex

However, your candidacy will be determined after a thorough health examination. Therefore, you must give full disclosure of your medical health.

Benefits of IV Sedation

• It provides a deep state of relaxation to the patient.
• It allows them to undergo dental procedures more comfortably and peacefully.
• It takes effect quicker than any other method of sedation.
• Patients do not feel any pain or pressure during the procedure.

IV sedation is an easy and effective way to overcome dental fear and undergo treatment more comfortably.

Please reach out to our dental practice in Colorado Springs, CO, to consult with our dentist, Dr. Cantua. Please call Dentist in Colorado Springs CO at (719) 235-5885 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.