Your dentist wants you to be comfortable! That is why they may suggest that you be sedated during your next procedure. Medications can help you stay calm and relaxed while your dental team works to improve the health and/or appearance of your smile. Multiple types of sedation are available, and IV sedation is one of the most powerful. Might you be a good candidate for it? This blog post touches on some important points.
IV Sedation: An Overview
Intravenous (IV) sedation is a relaxation technique that involves administering sedative medication directly into the bloodstream, which results in almost immediate relaxation. Unlike other forms of sedation, IV sedation tends to be more potent and allows for a higher degree of control over the level of sedation. Patients remain conscious and able to respond to verbal cues but are likely to have little or no memory of the procedure afterward.
Indications That IV Sedation Might Be Right for You
IV sedation may be right for you if:
- You experience extreme anxiety that would otherwise prevent you from receiving the necessary dental care.
- You have a strong gag reflex that can interfere with dental procedures.
- You require extensive or complex dental treatments that may be lengthy or uncomfortable.
- You have had past traumatic experiences in a dental setting that have left you fearful.
- You are undergoing multiple procedures in one appointment and require a high level of sedation.
- You desire to have little to no memory of your dental procedure after it is completed.
- You have difficulty sitting still for long periods of time, making dental treatments challenging.
- You have a medical condition that would make other forms of sedation less effective or unsuitable.
- You are free from contraindications that would make IV sedation unsafe for you. For example, it is not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with certain health conditions.
Consult with Your Dentist to Learn More
Deciding whether IV sedation is appropriate for you requires a thorough consultation with your dentist. During this consultation, your dentist will evaluate your dental and medical history, current health status, and the specific nature of the upcoming treatment. This assessment will help determine if IV sedation fits your unique circumstances.
Feel free to ask questions during your consultation and express any concerns you have. Together, you and your dentist can work out a plan that will make your treatment experience as easy and comfortable as possible.
Meet the Practice
At Smile Design Implant Centers, we specialize in providing advanced services to help patients build beautiful and healthy smiles. We know that the prospect of some procedures can be intimidating, so we are pleased to offer multiple forms of sedation, including IV sedation. To learn more about this provision or to request a consultation, contact our Reno, NV, office at 775-391-6636.