IV sedation dentistry can help patients with significant dental anxiety or those who need lengthy or complex treatment. Although IV sedation can help patients who struggle with significant dental anxiety, whether it makes sense for you depends on several factors, including your medical history and treatment needs.
Dr. Robert Ellis is a sedation dentist with over 25 years of experience helping patients overcome barriers to dental care. When he sees you at a free consultation, he can help you understand whether IV sedation or another option is best for you.
Who IV Sedation Dentistry Works Best For
With so many sedation options on the table, who is IV sedation best for? Patients with more intense dental fear or anxiety who are avoiding care tend to be good potential candidates for IV sedation.
IV sedation may also make it easier to tolerate longer or more complex treatment, like full arch dental implants or major restorative work.
Patients who have difficulty staying still or controlling their movements due to underlying conditions may also benefit from IV sedation. Our team is passionate about accommodating patients with special needs, and we understand how to help them feel comfortable during treatment.
The best sedation option for you or your loved one depends on factors like medical history and treatment needs.
Factors To Consider Before Choosing IV Sedation
Before recommending IV sedation, we consider your health and scheduling needs to determine whether it is a good fit for you. Here are some risk factors we may look out for:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Cardiovascular disease
- Liver or kidney disease
- History of reactions to anesthesia
These conditions do not automatically rule out IV sedation dentistry. After Dr. Ellis reviews your medical history and the medications you’re taking, he can recommend the best sedation option for you.
Patients might find that IV sedation comes with a bit more planning than other options at our practice. For starters, we offer IV sedation only on a limited number of days each month because our licensed nurse anesthetist, who oversees sedation, must be present. This means we have a narrower scheduling window for dental treatment with IV sedation.
IV sedation can affect judgment and coordination for up to 24 hours after treatment. Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you to the appointment, drive you home, and stay with you afterward for the period specified by your anesthesia provider.
If the IV sedation schedule or driving restrictions do not meet your needs, we can discuss whether another sedation option is appropriate.
How IV Sedation Dentistry Works
IV sedation dentistry involves preparation and monitoring to ensure safety. To start, our nurse anesthetist will administer the sedation and monitor your heart rate, breathing, and sedation levels. We deliver the medication through a small tube placed in a vein, usually in your hand or arm. This allows the anesthesia provider to give and adjust medication during treatment.
IV sedation takes effect quickly, and the anesthesia provider adjusts the medication to achieve the intended level of sedation. You’ll be in a highly relaxed state. You may not remember the procedure afterward. While you’re comfortable and relaxed, Dr. Ellis performs the planned dental treatment, and the nurse monitors you throughout.
Once your treatment is done, you’ll still experience the effects of IV sedation. Even if you think you feel fine, your judgment and coordination may not be back to normal. For at least 24 hours after treatment, don’t drive or make important decisions. Follow any instructions Dr. Ellis or the nurse provides about returning to work and other activities.
Book a Free Consultation
IV sedation dentistry is just one of many options for patients with difficulty tolerating dental work. Dental sedation isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is Dr. Ellis’ approach to patient care. To see if IV sedation is right for you, stop in for a visit. Dr. Ellis can review your treatment needs and your medical history and explain the best sedation option for your situation.
At West Wind Dental, we know how to put nervous or uncomfortable patients at ease. Come in for a free consultation to see whether IV sedation makes sense for you.
