Dental Anxiety and IV Sedation

Many patients with dental anxiety avoid visiting the dentist, even for routine care. Fortunately, there are options for those who are fearful, including iv sedation.

IV sedation is used to provide deep relaxation, making it possible to sleep through the procedure. Most patients are not aware of what happens during treatment and will not remember it later.

Fear and Anxiety

If dental anxiety has kept you from visiting the dentist, it’s important to learn about safe and effective treatment options like IV sedation. This technique allows patients to feel relaxed during their appointment and procedure, enabling them to get the care they need.

Sedation dentistry is used for a variety of reasons. It’s ideal for patients with high levels of fear or anxiety, a low pain tolerance, a sensitive gag reflex, or extensive dental work. It can also help create a positive association with the dentist, encouraging patients to visit regularly for maintenance and prevention.

The sedative medication administered through IV sedation takes effect quickly and can last for up to an hour. Patients should fast for a period of time before their appointment and bring an escort to drive them home afterward. Sedation is a safe option, but patients are monitored throughout the procedure for signs of any complications. This includes measuring heart rate and blood pressure.

Preparation

For patients who want to avoid needles and sharp dental equipment, IV sedation is a great option. The most common medications used for this type of sedation are benzodiazepines and dexmedetomidine. These are sedatives that can also induce amnesia, so most patients remember very little of their procedure.

The drugs can have adverse reactions in some cases, so your doctor must evaluate your health history before recommending this type of sedation for you. A detailed medical interview and recording of vital signs is essential. During IV sedation, monitoring is standard, and our professional sedation nurses or dental staff are trained to handle any possible complications.

You will need to arrange transportation for your return home after treatment because you will be drowsy and may have a headache or feel sick to the stomach. It is also best to avoid driving or operating machinery and making important decisions for a few hours after treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions about eating and drinking, medications and herbal supplements.

Procedure

During IV Sedation, a needle is used to insert the drug into your bloodstream. The drugs will be administered quickly and will have almost an immediate effect, making you feel relaxed. Unlike oral or laughing gas sedation, IV sedation Georgetown KY will put you into a deep state of relaxation. You will probably have no memory of the dental procedure.

While you are under sedation, your breathing and circulation will be monitored. You may be given oxygen, and you will likely be on a bispectral index (BIS) monitor to assess consciousness level.

If you choose to have IV sedation, we recommend that you bring a friend or family member with you on the day of your appointment so that they can drive you home afterward. You should avoid driving or operating mechanical or electrical machinery and devices for 12 hours following your appointment. You should also avoid drinking alcohol or smoking. Taking Tylenol can help with any pain after the procedure.

Recovery

While most patients recover quickly, it will take some time for the effects of IV sedation to wear off. It is best to have a family member or friend available to drive you home after the procedure and remain with you until you are fully awake. It is important to avoid strenuous activity, unapproved medication, alcohol and operating heavy machinery until the effects of sedation have worn off.

A common side effect of IV sedation Georgetown KY is nausea. Taking anti-nausea medicine as directed can help relieve this issue. If the nausea persists, taking over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or Tylenol) can help control it.

The arm or hand where the needle was inserted to administer the IV may feel tender and inflamed. Applying heat to the area can help ease these symptoms. Some people experience constipation from the narcotic pain medications used in IV sedation, and over-the-counter laxatives can be used to relieve this problem.