Intravenous dental sedation is simply called IV sedation or twilight sleep. It is the most effective and predictable method of sedation dentistry, and it’s great for patients who are fearful of dental treatment or will be having an extensive procedure completed. This is the most effective and reliable choice for patients who don’t want any memory of their dental experience. To administer it, sedatives are delivered through an intravenous line placed in the arm. Therefore, short sleeves, comfortable clothing, and athletic footwear should be worn to the appointment. Patients must avoid food and drink for eight hours prior to treatment. A driver is needed to take the patient home after treatment. IV sedation removes anxiety, stress, and memory of dental care.
What Is IV Dental Sedation?
IV dental sedation is the most powerful form of sedation dentistry. It is designed to help patients achieve a deeper, more profound level of relaxation than what’s possible with nitrous oxide sedation and oral conscious sedation. A small needle will be placed in the arm, delivering the sedative medication directly into the bloodstream. Not only does this mean that the effects will take hold right away, but we will be able to adjust your level of sedation at any point if needed.
Within minutes of the sedative entering your system, you’ll enter a dreamlike state. While you’ll remain conscious, many patients feel as though they’ve slept through their entire appointment. In fact, dental care with IV sedation is so comfortable that patients often drift off to sleep during their treatment, but they can be easily awoken with a gentle nudge. Once the appointment is over, you’ll continue to feel groggy for the rest of the day. You’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home, and you aren’t likely to remember anything about your appointment.
Who is a Good Candidate for IV Dental Sedation?
Thanks to Dr. Kotlarek’s experience, we can offer IV dental sedation to patients of all ages. You may be a good candidate for IV dental sedation if you:
- Don’t want any memory of your appointment
- Don’t want to feel awake or aware during your procedure
- Are very nervous or afraid of the dentist
- Will be undergoing a lengthy or complex treatment
- Have a very sensitive gag reflex
- Have a very low tolerance for pain
However, not everyone is a good candidate for IV dental sedation. Certain medications and medical conditions could indicate that a different type of sedation dentistry would be a better fit for you. The only way to know for sure if you’re a good candidate for IV sedation is to come see us for a consultation.
The Benefits of IV Dental Sedation
IV sedation offers numerous benefits, such as:
- Fast-acting calming effects
- Level of sedation can be adjusted at any time
- No memories of treatment afterwards
- A powerful and reliable way to relax during treatment
- Can help soothe even the most anxious patients
Advantages of IV Sedation Dentistry vs. Oral Conscious Sedation Dentistry
IV sedation is the most reliable method for comfortably receiving dental treatment. Because IV sedation takes effect immediately, it’s easily regulated. Also, the intravenous route of sedation allows control of the depth and duration of sedation. As an alternative, oral conscious sedation offers the simplicity of taking a pill with water. Unfortunately, oral conscious sedation does not offer control over how soon the sedation takes place and when the effects wear-off. Oral conscious sedation isn’t as predictable as other methods of sedation. However, it is simple, effective, and creates calmness.
