IV sedation is one of the more common types of sleep dentistry. If you are nervous about IV sedation or are considering asking your dentist about it, then learning the basics is a good first step. This review offers a definition of IV sedation for sleep dentistry, when it is recommended and what the risks are.
There are several options for sleep dentistry available to patients. Depending on the type of procedure, the length of the procedure and the preferences and needs of the patient, a dentist may recommend one over another. IV sedation is one of the more frequently recommended methods of sleep dentistry due to the benefits and safety.
IV sedation is a stronger form of sleep dentistry that makes the patient feel sleepy and less aware. The purpose of IV sedation is to minimize anxiety and pain before and during a dental procedure. It involves administering a sedative intravenously through a catheter after a needle is placed in the vein.
There are two main types of IV sedation: twilight and general anesthesia. Twilight is the more common form for dental purposes. With twilight IV sedation, the patient is awake and conscious. The patient is not conscious during general anesthesia, which is far rarer for dental purposes.
As mentioned, IV sedation is much stronger than oral sedation or nitrous oxide. Therefore, it is recommended for more invasive dental procedures that cause more anxiety and discomfort. However, some patients who have severe dental phobia may benefit from IV sedation even for less invasive procedures, such as root canal therapy or tooth extraction. For patients who only have a minor procedure and wish for a form of sleep dentistry that is not as strong, oral sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may be better options.
As is the case with any form of medication, there are certain risks to know about, although most patients have minimal to no side effects. The risks of IV sedation include an allergic reaction, breathing complications and issues with blood pressure. To minimize the risks, the dentist examines the patient's medical history, allergies and other important information before the procedure.
The patient should arrange for a ride home after a procedure in which IV sedation is used. This ensures optimal safety for the patient, as they are likely to feel groggy for at least several hours afterward.
You can reach our dental team by phone or email to learn more about sleep dentistry and to arrange a consultation visit. We treat all types of oral health and cosmetic concerns, and we do everything in our power to ensure that our patients are comfortable and as pain-free as possible during treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://chico.drelloway.com or call Randal S Elloway DDS, Inc. at (530) 877-4994 for an appointment in our Chico office.
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