IV Sedation
Why Choose Intravenous
Conscious Sedation?
preIVsedatoninstructions.doc
What is IV sedation?
Intravenous sedation is a type of
sedation that allows patients to experience
a more pleasant visit to the dentist and
allows for longer appointments in which
a large amount of treatment can be completed
in one visit. It involves administering
small amounts of sedative medications
through a cannula into a vein in the arm.
Patients report this as almost painless and
the sedatives soon take effect. As the
medications take effect, you begin feeling
drowsy and very relaxed. The most reported
desired effect of IV sedation is the likely
cause of some short-term amnesia, and once
treatment is completed, you are
unlikely to recall the appointment length of time.
What are the benefits of Conscious Sedation?
Intravenous conscious sedation is a safe and
effective method of anesthesia that allows for
dental procedures to be performed in a more
comfortable, relaxed state. Conscious sedation
reduces fear and anxiety associated with dental
procedures. Because of the increased relaxation
that occurs with conscious sedation, the safety
of those patients with medical conditions is
actually increased.
Who provides Conscious Sedation?
Conscious sedation is provided by a dentist
trained in dental anesthesiology. Valium type
medication is given in small, incremental doses
intravenously. At all times the patient is monitored
for their heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and
oxygen saturation.
Am I responsive during treatment with
Conscious Sedation?
Yes, patients are always responsive during
treatment and can communicate to the dentist.
This allows for more effective treatment.
What Does Intravenous Sedation
during a dental procedure cost?
Cost varies. Our administrative
staff will discuss with you fees and if insurance
coverage is available in advance of treatment.
Summary of Benefits
- Reduces fear and anxiety associated with
dental procedures
- Increases the safety and effectiveness of
local anesthesia
- It is safely administered in our office by a
trained professional
- It reduces the stress of treatment especially
for patients who easily gag
- Allows for longer appointments where many times
larger amounts of treatment can be performed
in one visit.