What is dental IV sedation?
Intravenous (IV) moderate sedation, as offered by the dental specialists at Wall St Dental Spa, is a type of sedation dentistry. This service is used to help you relax and be as comfortable as possible during your dental procedures.
Your dentist may recommend IV sedation if you:
- Are very anxious about your dental work
- Have extensive dental work planned
- Anticipate painful or long-lasting procedures
- Have a sensitive gag reflex
IV sedation uses medications such as Versed®, which makes you feel relaxed or sleepy before your procedures. This is given through a vein in your arm, using a small needle or catheter. This medication wears off quickly once your dentist is ready for you to wake up.
What procedures can be done under IV sedation?
Not all procedures are right for using IV sedation. Your dentist can recommend which procedures are best to use along with IV sedation.
These procedures may include:
- Periodontal cleanings
- Smile makeover
- Full mouth restoration
- Dental implants
- Gum repair
- Root canals
- Osseous surgery or bone repair
- Tooth extractions
- Extractions with bone grafting
If IV sedation is not best for your particular procedure, the dentists at Wall St Dental Spa offer other forms of sedation that can be effective to help you relax and remain comfortable.
How is IV sedation different from general anesthesia?
IV sedation and general anesthesia are both forms of sedation that could be used during your dental procedure. They differ in how awake you are while you’re receiving each form of sedation.
With IV sedation, you are semi-awake. You can be easily awakened, but are very relaxed. During your procedure, the dental team can ask you questions or wake you up, but you will likely not remember anything about the procedure.
With general anesthesia, you’re completely asleep throughout your procedure. You cannot be awakened unless your dose of medication is adjusted or unless you’re given medication to reverse your sedation. You aren’t aware of anything taking place during your procedure.
In both cases, it’s important that you bring a driver with you who can drive you home after your appointment. You may feel a little drowsy, or possibly somewhat loopy after you have sedation.
To discuss whether IV sedation is right for you, call or book an appointment online with Wall St Dental Spa.
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