IV sedation is a valuable tool in the world of dentistry. As a safe and effective option for reducing anxiety and discomfort, many patients turn to IV sedation to help them have a more relaxing, stress-free dental experience.
At Leavitt Dentistry, we understand that dental anxiety is a very real phenomenon that often prevents patients from getting the care they need. That’s why we’re proud to offer IV sedation right here in our office. Dr. Leavitt has received specialized training and is certified in IV sedation, so you can trust that your oral health is in the best, most capable hands.
We’re committed to putting patients’ minds at ease and making their dental experience as comfortable as possible. If you’re considering sedation dentistry, keep reading to learn the answers to eight FAQs to help you determine whether IV sedation is right for you.
FAQ #1: What Does IV Sedation Feel Like? Will I Be Unconscious?
IV sedation is not the same as being completely unconscious like with general anesthesia — instead, it induces a deeply relaxed, dream-like state. While most patients remain conscious, they experience a calming feeling of drowsiness. Some will go to sleep and wake when the procedure is over. You may also feel like you’re drifting in and out of sleep during your procedure. Everyone, however, is very relaxed and much more comfortable with IV sedation.
FAQ #2: What’s the Difference Between IV Sedation and General Anesthesia?
When weighing the different sedation dentistry options available, many patients wonder what the difference between IV sedation and general anesthesia is. With IV sedation, patients are conscious and responsive, but in a state of deep relaxation. Patients will continue breathing naturally on their own. General anesthesia, on the other hand, induces complete unconsciousness and the need to breathe for the patient with machines.
IV sedation allows for quicker recovery and has fewer risks than general anesthesia, making it an attractive option for many people. However, if you’d prefer general anesthesia, Dr. Leavitt can provide dental care at a surgery center with the help of a medical team of nurses and an anesthesiologist, allowing you to completely sleep during your procedure.
FAQ #3: Will I Remember the Procedure?
Memory suppression is a common and expected effect of IV sedation. Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure once the sedative wears off. This is one reason why IV sedation is so popular for patients with dental anxiety — it’ll almost feel like the procedure didn’t even happen.
FAQ #4: What Are the Potential Risks and Side Effects of IV Sedation?
Mild side effects may include drowsiness, mild nausea, dry mouth, irritation at the IV site, allergic reactions, or grogginess. We will fully inform all patients of detailed risks on our consent form. While complications such as allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, and a drop in blood pressure are rare, they can occur. We are equipped and prepared to handle any reaction or complication to keep our patients safe.
It’s important to note that IV sedation is very safe when administered by a trained professional like Dr. Leavitt with proper monitoring. Before administering the sedative, we’ll go over your health history and discuss any concerns to ensure you’re not at risk of any adverse effects.
FAQ #5: How Long Does IV Sedation Last?
The effects of IV sedation usually wear off within a few hours. In most cases, patients feel back to normal by the end of the day. However, you will need a ride home after your procedure, since it’s not safe to drive until the sedative has run its course. You should also rest and not drive or make any big decisions until the following day to give your body the chance to reset.
FAQ #6: Who is a Good Candidate for IV Sedation?
Ideal candidates for IV sedation include patients without serious life threatening health problems or with minor medical issues that are well under control. We’ll review your medical history before the procedure to determine your qualification. It is a good treatment for anyone who would like to relax and breeze through their procedure, patients with dental anxiety, people undergoing longer or more complex dental procedures, and those with a strong gag reflex or difficulty sitting still.
FAQ #7: Will I Feel Any Pain?
At Leavitt Dentistry, comfortable care is our top priority. We want you to have a comfortable experience, both mentally and physically. We pair IV sedation with local anesthesia, to make sure you are adequately numb in the area that we are working, and our patients report feeling no pain and minimal discomfort during their procedures.
FAQ #8: Are There Sedation Options for Children?
Yes, children should be treated with sedation very carefully to ensure their little bodies can stay safe. When children need sedation, our safest approach is to either treat them in the office with nitrous oxide “happy gas” or take them to the surgery center for general anesthesia with our medical team. Both of these options are very safe. Our primary goal is to help your child get their dental treatment done while staying safe in every way. We have had great success doing that with these two approaches.
We Invite You to Have a More Comfortable Experience with Leavitt Dentistry
If you think IV sedation might be right for you, contact Leavitt Dentistry today to schedule a consultation, learn more about our sedation options, and take the first step toward receiving the dental care you need — stress-free.
