Are you considering IV sedation dentistry for your next dental procedure? At Beaches Dental Mona Vale, we understand that dental anxiety can prevent patients from seeking essential dental care. That’s why we offer IV sedation dentistry by a medical Sedationist as an option to help you feel more comfortable during your visit.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on what to expect when considering IV dental sedation, its benefits, safety, and more.
What is IV sedation dentistry?
Intravenous (IV) sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry or conscious sedation, is a technique used during dental procedures to help patients feel more relaxed and alleviate anxiety. During IV sedation, medication is delivered directly into the patient’s bloodstream through a cannula placed in the back of a patient’s hand, creating a calming effect that can result in a dream-like state. This allows patients to undergo lengthy or multiple dental treatments in a single visit with reduced stress, anxiety and memory of the procedure.
What’s involved in the procedure?
During a dental procedure with IV sedation, a qualified medical sedationist will administer the medication through a cannula inserted into a vein in your arm or hand. Your Sedationist will closely monitor your vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, to ensure your safety throughout the procedure.
Once the sedation takes effect, the dental treatment will be performed by your dentist as planned. After the procedure, you’ll gradually begin to regain alertness. However, it’s essential for you to stay and recover at the practice for a while after your procedure and to arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards to stay with you for the day and night.
What are the benefits of dental IV sedation
IV sedation dentistry offers several benefits for patients, including:
- Reduced anxiety and stress during dental appointments and procedures
- Little to no memory of the treatment
- Option to perform multiple procedures in one visit
- Ability to help patients with dental phobia or anxiety have dental treatment.
How is intravenous sedation administered?
A qualified medical Sedationist will administer your IV sedation prior to your treatment. Our team of dentists has a wealth of experience in sleep dentistry and will closely monitor you throughout the treatment to ensure your safety and comfort.
What’s involved pre and post-procedure?
Before the procedure, you’ll have a consultation with your dentist to discuss the different sedation options available to you. Your dentist will also ask about your medical history, the treatment you require and any address concerns or questions you may have. You’ll receive specific pre-appointment instructions, which typically include fasting for a certain period and arranging for someone to drive you to and from the appointment. It’s also important you organise someone to stay with you for the day and night after the procedure.
Post-procedure, you will be monitored as the sedation wears off, and you regain alertness. You may still feel groggy, and the sedative effects may last for several hours. This is why it’s important to follow instructions provided by your Sedationist and dental team and to have someone stay with you for the rest of the day and night.
What can I expect to feel with IV sedation?
During the dental procedure, you can expect to feel extremely relaxed and possibly drowsy. However, you’ll remain conscious and able to respond to your dentist and sedationist if needed.
You may only remember part or none of the details of your dental surgery after the procedure, which may be beneficial for those with dental anxiety.
How Safe is Sedation Dentistry?
IV sedation dentistry is generally considered safe when administered by a qualified professional, such as our medical Seditionists. Risks and complications from undergoing IV sedation are uncommon, but it’s crucial to discuss these, your medical history and any potential concerns you may have with your sedationist and/or dentist.
Are there side effects?
While IV sedation dentistry is generally safe, some patients may experience side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and mild amnesia. These effects typically subside within a few hours following the procedure. It’s essential to follow your Sedationist and dental team’s post-operative instructions to ensure a safe recovery.
Contact Us
At Beaches Dental Mona Vale, we strive to create a comfortable experience for all our patients. If you’re considering IV sedation dentistry for your next dental visit or have any questions about surgical procedures, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team.
We’re here to help you achieve the best possible dental care tailored to your needs. You can request an appointment here or call us directly on (02) 9997 8822.