What is IV sedation dentistry?
Intravenous (IV) sedation is an anesthesia option that allows you to be completely relaxed for your treatment. It is also appropriate for patients who may be anxious about general anesthesia.
If you are ready to learn more about IV sedation or other services offered by our dental office, please call 540-908-4846.
How does IV sedation work?
A certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) will administer medications through the IV line during your sedation visit. As a result, you will feel your anxiety and tension melt away while remaining somewhat alert. Our on-site monitors ensure that you are comfortable, breathing well, and can respond to our questions. Once your treatment is finished, you will be taken to a recovery area where the IV sedation medications will be decreasing. When you are fully awake, you may feel groggy and want a reliable person to drive you home.
How is IV sedation used in sedation dentistry?
IV sedation is an option to help you be completely relaxed and free of dental anxiety during procedures such as:
- Orthodontic treatment
- Root canal therapy
- Crown placement
- Dental implant placement
- Restorative procedures such as tooth extraction or wisdom tooth extraction
Our anesthesia experts and oral and maxillofacial surgeons will meet with you to explain iv sedation and address any concerns about its safety. In addition, since IV sedation is often combined with other forms of anesthesia, we may ask you to attend a pre-treatment screening appointment. Please call our office today to learn more about IV sedation, screening appointments, and dental experiences with sedation dentistry.
What are the benefits of IV sedation Dentistry?
Compared to other sedation dentistry options, some of the many benefits of IV sedation include:
- It does not affect the body’s functions, it only eliminates the ability to feel pain, but we will monitor you throughout the dental treatment.
- It is an excellent alternative to oral sedation for gag reflex patients.
- The dentist can efficiently perform multiple dental procedures in one visit.
- Dental patients will be in an amnesic state, so they will not recall what happened during the procedure.
- There are fewer side effects than general anesthesia, so patients will not be as uncomfortable afterward.
At Massanutten Dental Team and Oral Surgery, we offer a range of sedation dentistry options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), Intravenous sedation, and general anesthesia to help you feel more relaxed.
What to Expect During IV Sedation
The IV sedation process will begin with a comprehensive evaluation to determine your needs and whether IV sedation is appropriate. We want you to be comfortable and well cared for at Massanutten Dental Team and Oral Surgery, and IV sedation is one option for achieving this goal. You will not feel anything during IV sedation, and your comfort is our primary concern.
How safe is IV sedation?
Our dental professionals not only focus on your oral health but also your safety. We have received advanced training for our sedation solutions and are a qualified facility with a registered nurse on duty to ensure your safety.
IV sedation is a safe and popular dental procedure, especially when choosing professional practices such as Massanutten Dental Team and Oral Surgery.
How to Prepare For IV Sedation Dentistry?
Some of the common side effects from IV sedation include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lightheadedness and grogginess
- Dizziness and headaches
To help you stay comfortable, we may ask you to avoid eating or drinking anything for a certain number of hours before IV sedation. For example, we may ask you to skip your lunch, but you can eat a light snack if your IV sedation appointment is later in the day. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids, and let our staff know if you have any questions or concerns.
After IV sedation, you may feel tired and disorientated. You will need a responsible driver to take you home.
Safe Sedation Dentistry with Massanutten Dental Team and Oral Surgery
At Massanutten Dental Team and Oral Surgery, we offer the safest dental care and sedation dentistry options to ensure the comfort of our patients. For more information about our sedation options, sleep dentistry, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 540-908-4846.
